Bill > HF591

This bill, known as the "Expedited Contempt Appeal Act," establishes a rapid legal mechanism for individuals found in contempt of court to challenge their sentences quickly. Specifically, the bill allows a person sentenced to incarceration or a fine for contempt to file an appeal within four hours of the original ruling, with the appellate court required to schedule a hearing within 24 hours of receiving the appeal notice. The bill gives the appellate court broad authority to stay the enforcement of the original sentence and to potentially overturn, modify, or affirm the ruling based on its merits. Recognizing that contempt of court rulings can sometimes result from minor infractions or potentially disproportionate judicial actions, the legislation aims to provide a swift due process mechanism that prevents potential judicial overreach. The bill requires the state supreme court to develop rules and procedures for handling these expedited appeals, including provisions for electronic filing and establishing emergency review panels. Notably, the bill takes effect immediately upon enactment, underscoring its perceived urgency in protecting individual legal rights in contempt proceedings.

Justice

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=HF591