What is an Executive Order?

An Executive Order is a directive given to federal agencies about how to carry out a certain operation of government. Unlike laws, they do not need approval from Congress in order to take effect. Almost every president in U.S. history has issued an executive order, some more than others. Though it happens infrequently, Congress can pass legislation to block an executive order or challenge it in courts. However, of all the executive orders that have been issued over the years fewer than 4% have actually been revoked by the legislature. 

Court Orders & Contempt of Court. 

A court order is an official proclamation that is made by a judge or panel of judges. In the case where someone intentionally defies or refuses to comply with a court order or decision issued by a court, they can then be held in contempt of court for their failure to comply and can potentially face criminal charges. Courts have many tools they can employ to enforce a court order ranging from contempt proceedings to attorney sanctions. 

Series Description

Breaking the Deadlock is an Emmy-nominated, groundbreaking new public affairs series designed to encourage civil dialogue at a time when conversation is so polarized. The series brings together a varied panel of prominent voices from the legal, political and cultural arenas to explore ethical dilemmas drawn from real life. It’s a fast-paced one-hour journey where moderator Aaron Tang guides panelists  through complex hypothetical scenarios. Each episode pushes panelists to grapple with questions of community, accountability and personal responsibility as they agonize over the right thing to do. While the panel knows the topic in advance, they do not know how the scenario will unfold giving rise to unexpected twists and turns where both panelists and viewers are challenged to confront the thought-provoking question: “What would I do?”