NCTJ Media Law - Contempt of Court question n answers graded A+

NCTJ Media Law - Contempt of CourtContempt of Court Summary - correct answer - If a trial is going ahead, you can't say anything that would influence the jury, starting from the moment that somebody gets arrested. - Naming somebody not seen as contempt of court, but a breach of privacy. - It is in contempt of court to report on previous offences & eye witness accounts. Strict liability rule - correct answer - The rule of law whereby conduct may be treated as contempt of court - Must be proof of harm and causation - With contempt your intention is not relevant, what matters is whether you have published something where there is substantial risk of serious prejudice or impediment. Defence for not knowing proceedings were active - correct answer You have to have taken all reasonable care to check the case is active. Who has the power to initiate contempt proceedings - correct answer The attorney general, crown court or a higher court has power to initiate contempt proceedings under the 1981 act as regards what has been published. Contempt of court punishment - correct answer Punishable by an unlimited fine and / or a jail sentence of up to 2 years. Proceedings are active in a civil case when - correct answer - An arrest is made without a warrant - Someone is charged orally - An indictment of changes is served - A warrant has been issued / A summons has been issued (someone has to appear in court) What is an inquest - correct answer Inquest: when there has been a death, held in a coroner's court, usually with no jury.