Presiding Judge Manuel Banales said on Wednesday he will allow them to waive arraignment or have attorneys present rather than appear in person on Friday.

Judge Banales also said he would issue summonses, not warrants. That allows them to avoid arrest and the need to post bond.

Willacy County District Attorney Juan Guerra accuses Mr Cheney, Mr Gonzales, a state senator and others of involvement in prisoner abuse at a federal detention center in south Texas.

Defence attorney Tony Canales accuses Mr Guerra of 'prosecutorial vindictiveness' and not following procedure. -- AP