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Prerogative writ

society Maturity 11-13 Next article →

A prerogative writ is an official order. This order tells a part of the government what to do. Long ago, only the King of England could use them. They were a way for the King to show his power. There were six main types of these orders.

One order is called habeas corpus. It tells a court to bring a prisoner to see a judge. This checks if the person should be held. Another is called mandamus. This order tells an official to do their job. There is also prohibition. This tells someone to stop doing something the law forbids. Certiorari lets a high court review a case from a lower court.

Two other orders are procedendo and quo warranto. These are not used much anymore. Today, many countries use these ideas to protect rights. In India, courts use writs to help people. In the United States, courts use them too. They help make sure the law is followed by everyone.

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