What is a writ in legal terms?

A writ in legal terms refers to a formal written order issued by a court or other legal authority directing an official or an individual to perform or refrain from performing a specific act. It serves as a mechanism for enforcing rights and obligations within the legal system. For example, a writ of habeas corpus requires a person holding someone in custody to bring the detainee before the court to examine the legality of their detention. This definition highlights the writ's role as an essential tool in ensuring legal processes are followed.

Other choices describe different legal concepts, but they do not accurately capture the essence of what a writ is in the legal context. For instance, a court order for a new trial pertains specifically to the appellate process rather than the directive nature of a writ. A request for evidence disclosure deals with the discovery phase in litigation, while a notification of charges relates to the formal process of informing an accused individual of the specific charges against them. Each of these alternatives has its own legal significance but does not embody the core definition of a writ.