Terms Used In Missouri Laws 547.060

  • 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 judgment is arrested in any case, and there is reasonable ground to believe that the defendant can be convicted of an offense, if properly charged, the court may order the defendant to be recommitted or admitted to bail anew to answer a new indictment or information.