mandamus

[ man-dey-muhs ]

noun

, plural man·da·mus·es.

1. a writ from a superior court to an inferior court or to an officer, corporation, etc., commanding that a specified thing be done.

verb (used with object)

1. to intimidate or serve with such writ.

mandamus

/ mænˈdeɪməs /

noun

1. law formerly a writ from, now an order of, a superior court commanding an inferior tribunal, public official, corporation, etc, to carry out a public duty

Word History and Origins

Origin of mandamus¹

From the Latin word mandāmus we command

Word History and Origins

Origin of mandamus¹

C16: Latin, literally: we command, from mandāre to command

Example Sentences

“If I were working on this, I would file a writ of mandamus ASAP,” defense lawyer Glenn Danas, a partner at the Clarkson Law Firm, told Slate.

From Salon

The Smith team then made its most important and aggressive move by noting that when judges have issued clearly erroneous jury instructions that doom prosecutions, “courts have permitted the government to obtain writs of mandamus.”

From Seattle Times

“While it’s unlikely, it seems to me Cannon’s latest order is sufficiently bonkers that Jack Smith might at least entertain the thought of a mandamus motion,” tweeted attorney Robert Kelner.

From Salon

Whether through existing mandamus or quo warranto actions, state and federal officials—as well as private citizens—can seek to disqualify a candidate who has engaged in insurrection from holding office.

From Salon

Lynch also asked Judge Jackson to decide by next Tuesday so the department could request a writ of mandamus from the U.S.

From Salon