In Re Baker

Criminal contempt is a summary proceeding which operates in derogation of human liberties. It should not be used except when reasonably necessary to the vindication of the authority and the prestige of the court. This is not such a case. The reasoning which brings me to tliat conclusion is as follows.

What is the essence of the charge against the respondents ? Is it that they drew a power of attorney and a will and in so doing did that which they, not being licensed to practice law, had no right to do? That and nothing more? It is now rather generally accepted that the courts, under their…