Writ
A writ is a formal written order issued by a court or other authorized body that directs someone to do something or refrain from doing something. Different writs serve different legal purposes, and the name of the writ helps identify the kind of action requested or ordered.
A writ is a formal written order issued by a court or other authorized body that directs someone to do something or refrain from doing something. Different writs serve different legal purposes, and the name of the writ helps identify the kind of action requested or ordered.
Example: A petition for a writ of certiorari asks the U.S. Supreme Court to review a lower court’s decision. Brown v. Board of Education reached the Supreme Court through the Court’s certiorari process.
Common misconception: A writ automatically means a court has ruled in the petitioner’s favor. Some writs begin a review process or request action; they do not by themselves decide the underlying dispute.
Sources: https://www.supremecourt.gov/visiting/activities/pdf/AboutTheCourtBooklet_February2026.pdf; https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USREPORTS-347/pdf/USREPORTS-347-483.pdf