1.9Contempt for Noncompliance with Sentence

“If the court finds that the sentenced person has not complied with his or her sentence, including a nonjail or nonprobation sentence, the court may issue an order for the person to show cause why he or she should not be held in contempt of court for not complying with the sentence. If the court finds the person in contempt, it may impose an additional sentence, including jail or probation if appropriate.” MCL 769.5(5).

“If the finding of contempt of court under [MCL 769.5(5)] is for nonpayment of fines, costs, or other legal financial obligations, the court must find on the record that the person is able to comply with the payments without manifest hardship, and that the person has not made a good-faith effort to do so, before imposing an additional sentence.” MCL 769.5(6).

For a detailed discussion of contempt proceedings, see the Michigan Judicial Institute’s Contempt of Court Benchbook.