prerogative writ

A prerogative writ is an outdated term for a writ issued by a court exercising unusual or discretionary power (as opposed to a writ of right). It is a writ directing a governmental agency , official , or other court. The prerogative writs are the writs of procedendo , mandamus , prohibition , quo warranto , habeas corpus , and certiorari .

[Last reviewed in July of 2021 by the Wex Definitions Team ]

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