"If the House of Representatives votes for a referral of a contempt charge -- then the Department of Justice will do what it always does in such circumstances, we will apply the facts and the law and make a decision consistent with the principles of prosecution." MORE: Jan. 6 committee recommends holding Bannon in contempt
Full Answer
The criminal offense of contempt of Congress sets the penalty at not less than one month nor more than twelve months in jail and a fine of not more than $100,000 or less than $100.
Contempt power means the power of public institutions such as Congress or a court to punish persons who show contempt for the process, orders, or proceedings of that institution. The contempt power aims to provide a means for a judge to uphold the dignity of the judicial process.
Congress has the power to restrain such individuals from interfering with its actions. It is a form of contempt, similar to contempt of court. Congress's ability to hold individuals in contempt who interfere with its duties is considered an implied power of the legislature.
Generally speaking, criminal contempt of court is charged as a misdemeanor, though it may be charged as a felony in certain situations.Jul 17, 2019
(1) Subject to the provisions of any law for the time being in force, a judge, magistrate or other person acting judicially shall also be liable for contempt of his own court or of any other court in the same manner as any other individual is liable and the provisions of this Act shall, so far as may be, apply ...
Obstruction of Congress. Congressional Research Service. Summary. Obstruction of justice is the frustration of governmental purposes by violence, corruption, destruction of evidence, or deceit. It is a federal crime.