CAPIAS AD RESPONDENDUM

CAPIAS AD RESPONDENDUM is a writ still used sometimes, instead of a justice's warrant, for the arrest of one against whom an indictment for mis- demeanour has been found. Formerly, when bail was given in civil actions, it was the writ by which most common-law actions were commenced. Now, under the Debtors Act, 1869, the writ can be used and bail obtained only where the defendant is about to leave the country and his evidence is essential.