Harris v. United States
United States Supreme Court
382 U.S. 162, 86 S. Ct. 352, 15 L. Ed. 2d 240 (1965)
- Written by Tammy Boggs, JD
Facts
Al Harris (defendant) was called as a witness before a grand jury and refused to answer questions based on his claim of privilege against self-incrimination. Harris and the grand jury were brought before the district court, and Harris was sworn. The judge directed Harris to answer the same propounded questions, assuring him that he would receive immunity from prosecution. Harris, who was represented by counsel, continued his refusal to answer. The government (plaintiff) requested a finding of contempt. The court found Harris guilty of criminal contempt over the objection of Harris’s counsel, who had requested an opportunity to call witnesses at a hearing on the contempt charge. The court sentenced Harris to one year of imprisonment, and Harris appealed.
Rule of Law
Issue
Holding and Reasoning (Douglas, J.)
Dissent (Stewart, J.)
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