How is "contempt of court" defined in California law?

In California law, "contempt of court" encompasses a range of actions that undermine the authority and function of the judicial system. The answer indicating that contempt of court involves interfering with court proceedings is particularly accurate because it highlights the broader interpretation of contempt beyond just individual behaviors.

Interfering with court proceedings can include various actions that disrupt or hinder the administration of justice. This may involve behaviors such as trying to intimidate witnesses, speaking out of turn during court sessions, or obstructing a judge's ability to conduct a trial. Such interference can significantly affect the integrity and efficacy of judicial processes.

While refusing to obey court orders, displaying disrespectful behavior, and failing to appear in court are all actions that can also fall under the umbrella of contempt, they represent more specific manifestations of the broader concept. The key aspect to understand is that contempt of court primarily serves to protect the court’s ability to function without external disruptions, maintaining the rule of law and respect for the judicial system. Thus, focusing on the act of interference encompasses a greater range of behaviors deemed contemptuous within the judicial context.