Legal Definitions - parol arrest

A parol arrest is an arrest ordered by a judge or magistrate from the bench, without a written complaint, and executed immediately. This type of arrest is usually made when a person breaches the peace in open court, such as disrupting a trial or hearing.

For example, if a person starts shouting and causing a disturbance during a court proceeding, the judge may order a parol arrest to have that person immediately taken into custody and removed from the courtroom.

Parol arrests are different from other types of arrests, such as those made with a warrant or based onprobable cause. They are made on the spot and without the need for a written complaint or warrant.