C.R.C.P. 232.22. — Overview of Contempt Proceedings

Contempt proceedings are brought by the Regulation Counsel to hold in contempt a respondent who is alleged to have violated an existing injunction prohibiting the respondent from engaging in the unauthorized practice of law. The Regulation Counsel files a petition for contempt with the supreme court, which may refer the matter to a special master to preside over the contempt proceeding. The special master will conduct an indirect contempt proceeding under C.R.C.P. 107 unless otherwise provided in this rule. The special master will then prepare a report to the supreme court. A respondent found to have acted in contempt of an injunction may be subject to a sentence of imprisonment not to exceed six months, restitution, a fine of $2,000 to $10,000 per incident, and assessment of costs as allowed by law. A respondent found to have also failed to pay ordered fines, costs, or restitution may be subject to remedial sanctions within a contempt proceeding.