Coleman v. State

Andrews, Presiding Judge.

Thomas Coleman appeals after being found in contempt of court. Because the trial court did not allow Coleman an opportunity to be heard before summarily announcing punishment, we reverse.

This case arose when Coleman went to the City Court of Atlanta to contest a traffic citation. It was announced that everyone in the courtroom was to turn off all cell phones. Coleman’s cell phone was not turned off and rang during court proceedings. The judge told the bailiff to confiscate Coleman’s cell phone. Coleman refused to give up his cell phone without a receipt. According to…