New contempt of court laws would 'reflect use of modern technology'

Department of Home Affairs seeking feedback from the public

The Department of Home Affairs is seeking feedback on plans to update the Island's contempt of court legislation to reflect the use of modern technology.

The proposed Contempt of Court Bill 2025 looks to address the risk material posted online and on social media can pose to legal proceedings.

Contempt of court covers a wide range of actions, including disrupting court proceedings, disregarding a court order or other behaviour that can obstruct justice.

It's designed to safeguard legal proceedings, ensure the rules of the court are followed and justice is fair.

This draft bill looks to modernise the existing laws on the Island, particularly in relation to online activity.

It explicitly mentions online material in relation to publication during active proceedings, and lists disclosing the identity of a party or witness on social media and photography in court as an examples of contempt.

Justice and Home Affairs Minister Jane Poole-Wilson says her department wants to update the law to "reflect the changing nature of public discourse, which increasingly takes place online now".

Anyone found guilty of contempt of court could face a prison sentence of up to six months or receive an unlimited fine in the summary court, or a two-year custodial sentence in the higher courts.

The bill also aligns with other changes proposed within the Justice Reform (Amendment) Bill 2025, which is also currently out for consultation.

The consultation is open until 27 October - you can read the draft bill in full and submit your feedback HERE.