Terms Used In Alabama Code 15-6-22

  • 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.
  • circuit: means judicial circuit. See Alabama Code 1-1-1
  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • person: includes a corporation as well as a natural person. See Alabama Code 1-1-1

When a person complained of is brought before the circuit, district or municipal court judge, he and his witnesses must be heard in his defense; and, if on hearing the witnesses on both sides it appears that there is no just reason to fear the commission of the offense, the defendant must be discharged. If the hearing is continued, the judge shall require the defendant to give bail for his appearance, and, failing to furnish the bail, the defendant must be committed to jail.