In Re Wells

Petitioner Cassius M. Wells stands committed to the Fresno County Jail upon one judgment for two asserted contempts of court: a constructive contempt, violation of a restraining order; and a direct contempt, refusal to answer questions at the hearing on the charge of constructive contempt. He seeks release upon a writ of habeas corpus. We have concluded that, regardless of the merits of the controversy otherwise, the judgment under which he is imprisoned is void and, hence, that he is entitled to release.

As shown by the return of the sheriff to the writ, the basis of petitioner’s confinement…