Recognizance, when required.

544.420. If it appear that a felony has been committed, andthat there is probable cause to believe the prisoner guiltythereof, the associate circuit judge shall bind, by recognizance,the prosecutor, and all material witnesses against such prisoner,to appear and testify before the court having cognizance of theoffense, on such day as the prosecuting attorney shall designatein writing duly filed with the associate circuit judge at thetime, and not to depart such court without leave.

(RSMo 1939 § 3873)

Prior revisions: 1929 § 3483; 1919 § 3828; 1909 § 5036

(1977) Preliminary hearing is in no sense a trial and primary purpose is to prevent abuse of power by the prosecution. State v. Clark (A.), 546 S.W.2d 455.