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Kilbourn v. Thompson

103 U.S. 168 (1880)

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Kilbourn v. Thompson

United States Supreme Court
103 U.S. 168 (1880)

Facts

Kilbourn (plaintiff) was called to testify before the United States House of Representatives (defendant). He refused to testify, and the Speaker of the House issued a warrant for his commitment to prison. Kilbourn brought suit, alleging that a body of Congress did not have the authority to hold him in contempt without due process of law.

Rule of Law

Issue

Holding and Reasoning (Miller, J.)

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