If Ford and her lawyer back out from the interview will they be held in contempt?

If Ford and her lawyer back out from the interview will they be held in contempt?

Doubtful. But they will schedule the vote almost immediately.

No. I don't think that violates any laws

I don't think so. It seems really odd that the senate can subpoena people if they choose, yet they are "negotiating" with this woman over the "terms" of her "testimony". I think it is all rather melodramatic. If any of it even happened 36 years ago, they were both minors in high school.

She ought to be sued for defamation of character!

Only by people who believe "innocent until proven guilty."

I believe that any interview is voluntary, so no.