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Iowa legal term

Contempt in Iowa Criminal Law

Current through 2026 Iowa legislative session

In Iowa criminal law, “Contempt” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Iowa criminal code.

What does “Contempt” mean in Iowa criminal law?

“Contempt” means an intentional lack of respect or reverence by treating in a rough manner. 2. “Deface” means to intentionally mar the external appearance. 3. “Defile” means to intentionally make physically unclean. 4. “Mutilate” means to intentionally cut up or alter so as to make imperfect. 5. “Trample” means to intentionally tread upon or intentionally cause a machine, vehicle, or animal to tread upon. (Iowa Code § 718A.1)

Statutes defining or using this term

Charges using this term

Related terms in the same statutes

This reference is informational and is not legal advice.