Terms Used In Alabama Code 15-7-20

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Jurisdiction: (1) The legal authority of a court to hear and decide a case. Concurrent jurisdiction exists when two courts have simultaneous responsibility for the same case. (2) The geographic area over which the court has authority to decide cases.

When the offense described in an arrest warrant is a misdemeanor and it is executed by the sheriff or his deputy, such sheriff or deputy may, on the request of the defendant, discharge him on sufficient bail for his appearance at the next term of the court having jurisdiction of the offense to answer any indictment which may be found against him therefor; and, if such court is in session, for his appearance at such court.