What does a writ of habeas corpus require?

A writ of habeas corpus is a legal action that requires the person holding a prisoner to bring them before the court. This legal instrument is essential for protecting individual freedom against unlawful and indefinite imprisonment. The purpose of this writ is to ensure that a detainee can challenge the legality of their detention, allowing the court to review the reasons for being held and to determine whether the imprisonment is justified under law.

In the context of the options, the requirement for police to bring a prisoner to court directly reflects the fundamental principle of habeas corpus, ensuring that detainees are not kept without proper judicial oversight. The courts use this mechanism to address potential abuses of power and to uphold the rights of individuals. This process is rooted in the principle that no one should be held without just cause or without the opportunity to contest their detention in a fair legal setting.

The other options do not accurately describe the function of a writ of habeas corpus: it does not require a prisoner to confess, decide on a plea, or dismiss a case outright. Instead, the focus is on the legal authority to challenge the terms and conditions of one's detention.