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No, accusations of a crime can be made only if warranted by the facts and implications and the forum is appropriate. On the other hand, insults and casual aspersions can be make with some freedom if outside the presence of a jury.

I know of a well respected federal judge some years ago who, while setting bail release conditions for an organized crime figure, stated that the mobster was not to associate with criminals and disreputable persons. The mobster's lawyer objected on the basis that the condition was vague and could apply to old friends, even to to the lawyer.

The judge agreed that it could apply to the lawyer -- who was notorious in his own right -- and that the mobster should be careful of who he associated with if he wanted to stay out on bail. The lawyer's face reddened and he had the good sense to shut up and sit down.

Don't feel too bad for the mobster though. As in the past, he escaped conviction again, that time by tampering with the jury.

Ooops. There I go again. Accusing people of a crime.