What is the definition of "civil contempt" in legal terms?

Civil contempt refers to a situation in which an individual disobeys a court order or fails to comply with a court's directive, which often leads to penalties meant to compel compliance. The essence of civil contempt is that it serves as a mechanism for enforcing the authority of the court and ensuring that its orders are followed. By imposing penalties, such as fines or even incarceration, the court aims to motivate the non-compliant party to adhere to the court's directives.

In this context, the correct choice emphasizes the court's role in compelling compliance rather than focusing on punitive measures associated with crimes or the resolution of disputes. Other options pertain to different legal processes, such as criminal punishments, alternative dispute resolutions like mediation, or the appeals process, which are unrelated to the specific definition or function of civil contempt.