Legal Definitions - writ of capias ad respondendum

A writ of capias ad respondendum is a legal order that requires a law enforcement officer to take a named defendant into custody. This writ is often issued when a defendant fails to appear in court or when an obligor has failed to pay child support.

For example, if a person is summoned to appear in court but fails to show up, a judge may issue a writ of capias ad respondendum to ensure that the person is brought to court to face the charges against them.

Another example is when a person is ordered to pay child support but fails to do so. In this case, a writ of capias ad respondendum may be issued to have the person arrested and brought to court to explain why they have not paid the required support.

Overall, a writ of capias ad respondendum is a legal tool used to ensure that defendants appear in court and fulfill their legal obligations.