Opinion ID: 1111415
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 6

Heading: failure to inform butler of all the relevant facts

Text: Butler argues that his due process rights were violated because he was not made aware of discussions by Judge Goff with Butler's client and with other attorneys regarding prior problems with Butler. Butler contends that this lack of knowledge prevented him from properly preparing a defense. This Court has previously articulated the due process requirements for the hybrid form of direct contempt which are as follows: The subject attorney must be notified of the charge of contempt, the specific order of the court allegedly violated, and other important facts surrounding the alleged contempt. Proof of knowledge by the attorney of the original court order must also be shown. After receiving notice the absent attorney must be given a meaningful opportunity to explain the absence. These requirements are best met by issuing an order to show cause and conducting a hearing to allow the attorney to explain the absence. The subject attorney must be given the opportunity to be represented by counsel, to call witnesses is [sic] his or her behalf and to present evidence. Williams, 120 Idaho at 478, 817 P.2d at 144 (citations omitted). It is undisputed that Butler was aware of the July 19 continued arraignment, was served with the show cause order, and was given an opportunity to be represented by counsel, explain his actions and present witnesses at the show cause hearing. There is no indication in the record that Judge Goff's discussions with Butler's client and statements regarding Butler's prior conduct were the basis for the contempt charge. The show cause order clearly charged Butler with contempt only for his failure to appear at the July 19 continued arraignment and set forth the proposed sanctions. Because Butler was aware of all the material facts upon which the contempt charge was based and was given an adequate opportunity to explain his absence from court on July 19, we find no violation of Butler's due process rights.