Terms Used In Tennessee Code 40-11-107

  • Answer: The formal written statement by a defendant responding to a civil complaint and setting forth the grounds for defense.
  • Arrest: Taking physical custody of a person by lawful authority.
  • Bail: Security given for the release of a criminal defendant or witness from legal custody (usually in the form of money) to secure his/her appearance on the day and time appointed.
  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.

The committing magistrate or the city court clerk of any incorporated municipality or city or that person’s deputies, before whom a defendant is brought for examination on a warrant of arrest, are authorized to take bail, either for the defendant’s appearance for examination or for the defendant’s appearance at court to answer the charge.