Self-determining states have proper structures that help them to govern its citizens effectively. The main role of the government is to provide a pool that collects taxes which are used to run all vital aspects and services provided by the government. Some of the branches of many governments include, defense, agriculture, transport, trade and health.
In order to avoid excesses of any arm of the government, disregard of the law and dictatorship, the government is normally divided into three. This mechanism are the legislature, the executive and the judiciary. The executive is the overall of government and organizes itself through ministries. The ministries formulate policies, provide essential services and manage government operations. The legislatures are people’s representatives who are elected into their position. Depending on the structure of the legislature, this arm of government provide laws that govern the federal, state or county governments. The judiciary are the guardians of the law hence they interpret the law of the land, and preside over civil and criminal cases.
After legislature have made laws in parliament, the judiciary guards and executes the law. The courts are stationed all over the nation to manage civil and criminal cases. If a firm, a person, an officer of the law or a law enforcer is in doubt of the meaning of any law, the courts are able to explain the meaning and implication of such a law. The judicial officer such as judges and magistrates are competent because they are trained, and experienced on matters law. Court decisions must be held in high regard. This is why the law allows any unsatisfied party to appeal on lower court decision in the higher courts, within a stipulated time-frame. The highest court in the land is usually the Supreme Court and their decision is final. In the absence of an appeal, all parties involved in a legal matter must adhere to the decision of the court. Disrespecting court decisions cannot be tolerated.
Whether a person is in government, is a civilian or is in the army, they are expected to abide by the ruling of the court. If they ignore court decision, they will be said to be in contempt. In essence, contempt of court entails ignoring court decision, behaving in a manner that undermines the court decisions or proceedings and by publishing or uttering words that will prejudice court decisions. Contempt of court is a serious charge and is punishable by law. The penalty for contempt of court is usually imprisonment or a fine. Notably, the maximum penalties are stipulated in the legal framework. If the person accused of being in contempt defends themselves and convinces the court to change its mind, they can be let off the hook.