Craig Murray ( @CraigMurrayOrg), ex-UK Ambassador, whistleblower, now political activist, faces court in Edinburgh this morning over contempt of court charges relating to articles & comments on the trial of former First Minister Alex Salmond. I& #39;ll be reporting what happens.
The Crown alleged in its April 21 petition that Mr Murray committed Contempt of Court at common law, under the Contempt of Court Act 1981, & breached relevant judicial reporting orders. Maximum sentence is 2 years imprisonment. (Section 15(2) 1981 Act)
For an accessible intro to Contempt of Court in Scottish criminal law, @PeatWorrier’s 20 minute podcast provides a great & entertaining explanation. Goes through case law (includes nudity & drunkenness in the court room!), strict liability, & defences. https://www.spreaker.com/user/andrewtickell/what-is-contempt-of-court">https://www.spreaker.com/user/andr...
I’m observing proceedings virtually. It’s a procedural hearing (case management rather than witnesses/questioning). Crown & accused representatives will appear. These are live proceedings & so legal restrictions apply to what anyone can say, including online.