Detainer Definition

A detainer is a hold, usually based on a court order, for law enforcement to hold a person against their will. For example, suppose a person is in jail awaiting trial on a felony or misdemeanor.

If a court in another jurisdiction wants that person as soon as they are available, that court initiates a detainer preventing the person’s release from jail. When the inmate can be released, the requesting court would be notified so law enforcement officers can get them.