What constitutes "criminal contempt" of court?

The correct answer is rooted in the definition of criminal contempt, which is primarily concerned with actions that disrupt the authority and functioning of the court. Criminal contempt occurs when a person's behavior shows disrespect toward the court or its proceedings, undermining the court's ability to administer justice. This can include acts such as yelling during court sessions, refusing to obey court orders, or otherwise obstructing the judicial process.

The other choices, while they might seem relevant at first glance, do not comprehensively define criminal contempt. Refusing to pay fines may lead to another form of contempt or penalties, but it is not the primary indication of undermining court authority. Providing false testimony is indeed a serious offense and can lead to perjury charges, but it is more accurately categorized as a separate crime rather than criminal contempt of court. Interfering with judicial appointments does not inherently involve behavior directed at the court itself during its proceedings, thus it lacks the direct impact on the judicial authority that constitutes criminal contempt.