N.D. Cent. Code § 12-44.1-11: Commitment papers - Copies - Endorsement

When an inmate is confined by virtue of any process directed to the administrator and the process requires a return to the court from which it was issued, the administrator shall keep a copy of the process with the return made thereon. The copy, certified by the administrator, is prima facie evidence of the administrator's right to retain the inmate in custody. All instruments or copies by which an inmate is committed or released shall be endorsed and filed by the administrator. The file and its contents shall be delivered to the administrator's successor.