Terms Used In Idaho Code 19-1510

  • Answer: The formal written statement by a defendant responding to a civil complaint and setting forth the grounds for defense.
  • 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.
When the indictment is for a felony and the defendant, before the finding thereof, has given bail for his appearance to answer the charge, the court to which the indictment is presented may order the defendant to be committed to actual custody, unless he gives bail in an increased amount, to be specified in the order.