What does 'contempt of court' mean?

'Contempt of court' refers to actions that disrespect or disobey the authority of the court. This encompasses a wide range of behaviors, including but not limited to disobedience to court orders, disruptive conduct during court proceedings, and any action that undermines the court's dignity, efficiency, or authority.

For instance, if an individual speaks disrespectfully to a judge or fails to comply with a court order, such acts may be classified as contempt. This concept serves to maintain the integrity and proper functioning of the judicial system, ensuring that courts can operate effectively without interference or disruption.

Other options reflect specific circumstances that may arise in a legal context but do not fully encapsulate the broader definition of contempt. Failing to appear when summoned (first option) is a specific behavior that can lead to contempt but does not represent the full scope. Submitting false evidence (third option) and bringing a frivolous lawsuit (fourth option) are serious issues in the legal system, but they pertain to different violations of legal standards or ethics rather than the foundational idea of contempt which is rooted in disrespecting the court's authority.