Legal Definitions - bind over

Definition: Bind over is a legal term that means to put a person under a bond or other legal obligation to do something, especially to appear in court. It can also mean to hold a person for trial or to turn a defendant over to a sheriff or warden for imprisonment pending further judicial action.

For example, a court may bind over a defendant if there is enough evidence to require a trial on the charges against the defendant. This means that the defendant will be held in custody until the trial takes place.

Another example is when a witness is required to appear in court to give evidence. The court may bind over the witness to ensure that they attend the court hearing.

These examples illustrate how bind over is used in legal proceedings to ensure that people fulfill their legal obligations and appear in court when required.