Types of Writs

Types of Writs:

-Habeas corpus: "To have the body"

It is a writ issued to a detaining authority to produce the detained person in court to know cause for detention. If the detention is found to be illegal, the court issues an order to set the person free. It can be issued against both public authorities as well as private individuals

-Mandamus: "We Command"

It is thus an order of a superior court commanding a person holding a public office asking him to perform his official duties that he has failed or refuse to perform.

-Prohibition: "To forbid"

A writ of prohibition is issued by a superior court to an inferior court or tribunal to prevent it from exceeding its jurisdiction and to compel it to keep within the limits of its jurisdiction.

-Certiorari: "To be Certified" or "To be informed"

A writ of certiorari is issued to quash the order passed by an inferior court or tribunal in excess of jurisdiction or lack of jurisdiction or error of Law.

-Quo Warranto: "By What Authority or Warrant"

A writ of quo warranto is issued against the holder of a public office to show to the court under what authority he holds the office.