Terms Used In Missouri Laws 544.530

  • Arrest: Taking physical custody of a person by lawful authority.
  • 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 defendant is in custody or under arrest for an offense for which he may be released as provided in section 544.455, the court in which the indictment or information is pending may release him and take his bond or recognizance, or, if the court is not in session, the clerk of the court may take his bond or recognizance.