Terms Used In Alabama Code 15-10-42

  • 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.
  • Indictment: The formal charge issued by a grand jury stating that there is enough evidence that the defendant committed the crime to justify having a trial; it is used primarily for felonies.
  • Writ: A formal written command, issued from the court, requiring the performance of a specific act.

When the indictment is for a misdemeanor, the writ of arrest may be in the same form as that set out in Section 15-10-41; except, that after the words “commit him to jail,” there must be added the words, “unless he gives bail to answer such indictment.”