In Re Estate of Melody

Pauline Owens was adjudged guilty of criminal contempt in the Probate Division of the Circuit Court and was sentenced to one year in jail. On appeal she contends: (1) her conduct was not contemptuous since it was not calculated to obstruct the administration of justice or impugn the dignity of the court; (2) the court erred in denying her a jury trial; (3) her conviction should be reversed because of certain irregularities and improprieties which occurred in the course of the proceeding, and (4) the sentence imposed should be reduced.

The defendant was a practical nurse and had been caring for…