Minnesota Statutes 629.54 – Witness to Recognize
When a person charged with a criminal offense is admitted to bail or committed by the judge, the judge shall also bind by recognizance any witnesses against the accused whom the judge considers material, to appear and testify at any trial or hearing in which the accused is scheduled to appear. If the judge is satisfied that there is good reason to believe that a witness will not perform the conditions of the witness’ recognizance unless other security is given, the judge may order the witness to enter into a recognizance for the witness’ appearance, with sureties as the judge considers necessary. Except in case of murder in the first degree, arson where human life is destroyed, and cruel abuse of children, the judge may not commit any witness who offers to recognize, without sureties, for the witness’ appearance.
Terms Used In Minnesota Statutes 629.54
- 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.
- children: includes children by birth or adoption;
(9) "day" comprises the time from midnight to the next midnight;
(10) "fiscal year" means the year by or for which accounts are reckoned;
(11) "hereafter" means a reference to the time after the time when the law containing such word takes effect;
(12) "heretofore" means a reference to the time previous to the time when the law containing such word takes effect;
(13) "judicial sale" means a sale conducted by an officer or person authorized for the purpose by some competent tribunal;
(14) "minor" means an individual under the age of 18 years;
(15) "money" means lawful money of the United States;
(16) "night time" means the time from sunset to sunrise;
(17) "non compos mentis" refers to an individual of unsound mind;
(18) "notary" means a notary public;
(19) "now" in any provision of a law referring to other laws in force, or to persons in office, or to any facts or circumstances as existing, relates to the laws in force, or to the persons in office, or to the facts or circumstances existing, respectively, on the effective date of such provision;
(20) "verified" when used in reference to writings, means supported by oath or affirmation. See Minnesota Statutes 645.45
- Person: may extend and be applied to bodies politic and corporate, and to partnerships and other unincorporated associations. See Minnesota Statutes 645.44
- Testify: Answer questions in court.
- Trial: A hearing that takes place when the defendant pleads "not guilty" and witnesses are required to come to court to give evidence.