Which section of the COCA 1981 addresses strict liability contempt?

Section 1 of the Contempt of Court Act (COCA) 1981 specifically addresses strict liability contempt. This section establishes the principle that certain actions can be regarded as contempt of court, regardless of the intention behind those actions. The focus is on the potential impact on legal proceedings, especially in cases where the publication of material could influence the fairness of a trial.

Strict liability contempt does not require proof of intent; instead, it is sufficient to show that a publication could create a substantial risk of serious prejudice to ongoing legal proceedings. This principle is critical for maintaining the integrity of the judicial process, as it ensures that only information that does not jeopardize the fairness of trials is published.

The other sections of the Contempt of Court Act deal with different aspects of contempt, such as defenses available to a publisher or the circumstances under which a court may grant leave to publish. Thus, while other sections might address various situations or provide limitations and protections, Section 1 is the central provision regarding strict liability.