Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: shelving clause
Term: SWEAR OUT
Definition: When someone makes a serious accusation against another person, they may need to swear under oath that what they are saying is true. This is called "swearing out" a complaint. If the accusation is serious enough, a judge may issue an arrest warrant based on the complaint.
Definition: To obtain an arrest warrant by making a charge under oath.
Example: Franklin swore out a complaint against Sutton.
Explanation: This means that Franklin made a formal accusation against Sutton and swore under oath that the accusation was true. This led to the issuance of an arrest warrant for Sutton.