The state's highest court upheld Justice Freedman's contempt rulings in May.

Aug. 9: The fines are suspended by a Federal appeals panel while the contempt ruling is appealed.

Lawyers for abuse victims said this was the first such contempt ruling against a diocese that they knew of.

The city is appealing a contempt ruling by Judge Freedman that ordered improvements in the shelter system.

He asked that the city be relieved of the contempt ruling but that it be continued against the four councilmen.

The prosecution sought a contempt ruling against Mr. Lee, saying he had violated the judge's order.

The city had paid $12,700 when a Federal appeals panel suspended them on Aug. 9 pending the city's appeal of the contempt ruling.

Lawyers and church officials have said they could not recall a contempt ruling with such stiff penalties against any major religious group.

Reynolds, a paralegal, appealed a contempt ruling after she refused to submit an unpublished document for discovery.

If she does approve huge costs, the adviser said, the President will challenge the fees and, if unsuccessful, appeal the contempt ruling.