Three ministers facing contempt charges could theoretically bring down the Australian government if convicted.

John Maitland from Maitland Lawyers has told 3AW’s Neil Mitchell, politicians cannot keep their seats if convicted of a serious offence.

“There’s no actual limit as to what the court may impose as a punishment,” Maitland said on 3AW Mornings.

“Theoretically, if they all got sentenced to terms of imprisonment, that weren’t satisfied, yes.”

NEIL: “It’s not going to happen though, is it?”

MAITLAND: “No (laughing).”

“I know it’s not going to happen, i’m just doing this to illustrate how important it is,” said Neil.

“… And how powerful the courts are in this situation.”

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