California § 1487 - If it appears on the return of the writ that the prisoner is in custody by virtue
Full text of California Public Contract Code - PCC § 1487 — If it appears on the return of the writ that the prisoner is in custody by virtue, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 1487. If it appears on the return of the writ that the prisoner is in custody by virtue
If it appears on the return of the writ that the prisoner is in custody by virtue of process from any Court of this State, or Judge or officer thereof, such prisoner may be discharged in any of the following cases, subject to the restrictions of the last section: 1. When the jurisdiction of such Court or officer has been exceeded; 2. When the imprisonment was at first lawful, yet by some act, omission, or event which has taken place afterwards, the party has become entitled to a discharge; 3. When the process is defective in some matter of substance required by law, rendering such process void; 4. When the process, though proper in form, has been issued in a case not allowed by law; 5. When the person having the custody of the prisoner is not the person allowed by law to detain him; 6. Where the process is not authorized by any order, judgment, or decree of any Court, nor by any provision of law; 7. Where a party has been committed on a criminal charge without reasonable or probable cause.
Source: official California text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About California § 1487
What does Public Contract Code - PCC § 1487 cover?
Section 1487 ("If it appears on the return of the writ that the prisoner is in custody by virtue") is part of the Public Contract Code - PCC, the codified statutory law of California. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite California § 1487?
A common citation format is "Public Contract Code - PCC § 1487" (California). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of California law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the California official source linked on this page or consult a licensed California attorney.
How does California § 1487 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in California can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in California.