When a person commits a crime, a judge has can issue a bench warrant. This warrant requires that the defendant be arrested. The most likely reason a bench warrant is required is for failing to appear in court on the set court date.
Contempt in court is different from a bench warrant. There a four types of contempt in court including civil, criminal, direct, and indirect contempt. For more information about Texas state law on contempt in court charges, click here.
Civil Contempt
Family law cases that have contempt in court is commonly called civil contempt. Filing this is a way that a judge can compel the defendant to obey in the court. Jail time is a typical result of this charge.
Criminal Contempt
This disciplinary charge is a result of misconduct. These charges do not go away when the defendant complies, but with the court order, but penalties will ensue to make sure no other acts of contempt are committed.
Direct Contempt / Indirect Contempt
Within the courtroom, direct contempt is charged when a defendant or witness directly disobeys a judge or officer. Indirect contempt is charged when disrespect or offense occurs outside of the court.
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