Superior Court Judge Perry Inos ordered the release of Hui Wen Rathburn, 43, to Guma Esperansa, a shelter for battered women, after her initial appearance and bail hearing on Friday.
Mrs. Rathburn promised to attend all her court hearings, and posted $5,250 unsecured appearance bond.
On June 29, 2011, the husband, Bill Rathburn, reported a domestic disturbance at their residence on Capital Hill.
The husband told police he avoided an argument with his wife who then grabbed a meat cleaver.
He said he pushed his wife as she lifted the meat cleaver up above her head to strike him and in the process dropped the knife, police said.
The husband said his wife was taking medication for mental problems.
