Chapter 588 — Contempt of Court

588.01 Contempts This law defines contempt of court in Minnesota. There are two types: direct contempt (bad behavior in front of the … 588.02 Power to Punish; Limitation Every court and judicial officer in Minnesota has the power to punish contempt of court by imposing a fine, jail time, … 588.03 Summary Punishment When contempt of court happens right in front of the judge (direct contempt), the judge may punish it immediately … 588.04 Arrest; Order to Show Cause For constructive contempt (contempt that happens outside the judge's presence, such as disobeying a court order), an … 588.05 Persons in Custody If someone charged with contempt is already in custody under a legal order (but not serving a felony sentence), the … 588.06 Admission to Bail When an arrest warrant is issued for contempt of court, the court decides whether the person can post bail or must stay … 588.07 Warrant, How Executed When a sheriff arrests someone on a contempt warrant, the sheriff must keep the person in custody and bring them to … 588.08 Return of Warrant; Penalty for Failure The officer must return the contempt arrest warrant and any bail bond to the court by the date stated in the warrant. If … 588.09 Hearing Once the person charged with contempt is in court or has appeared, the court holds a hearing. The court questions the … 588.10 Penalties for Contempt of Court This section sets the maximum penalties for contempt of court in Minnesota. A person found guilty of contempt may be … 588.11 Indemnity to Injured Party If someone's contempt of court causes actual harm to another party in a case, the court can order the person found in … 588.12 Imprisonment Until Performance When a person is held in contempt for failing to do something they are still able to do (such as paying court-ordered … 588.13 Indictment A person punished for contempt of court can also be charged with a crime through indictment if the same behavior is a … 588.14 Second Warrant; Action on Recognizance; Measure of Damages If a person arrested for contempt does not show up on the scheduled court date, the court can issue a new arrest … 588.15 Illness May Excuse Officer From Producing Person If someone arrested for contempt is too sick or otherwise unable to come to court, the officer holding them does not … 588.20 Criminal Contempts This section defines criminal contempt in Minnesota and establishes two levels of offense. Knowingly disobeying a … 588.21 Failure to File Complete Income Tax Return If a taxpayer refuses to obey a court order to file a complete income tax return, the court can fine them up to $50 for …