quo warranto

[ kwoh waw-ran-toh, wo- ]

noun

, Law.

1. (formerly, in England) a writ calling upon a person to show by what authority they claim an office, franchise, or liberty.
2. (in England and the United States) a trial, hearing, or other legal proceeding initiated to determine by what authority one has an office, franchise, or liberty.
3. the pleading initiating a trial, hearing, or other legal proceeding initiated to determine by what authority one has an office, franchise, or liberty.

quo warranto

/ ˈkwəʊ wɒˈræntəʊ /

noun

1. law a proceeding initiated to determine or (formerly) a writ demanding by what authority a person claims an office, franchise, or privilege

Word History and Origins

Origin of quo warranto¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English, from Medieval Latin quō warrantō “by what warrant”

Word History and Origins

Origin of quo warranto¹

from Medieval Latin: by what warrant

Example Sentences

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

Prosecutors sought permission to sue Calderon in a process known as a quo warranto.

From Los Angeles Times

An attempt was made, however, to prevent judgment being rendered on the return of the writ of quo warranto.

From Project Gutenberg

The “quo warranto” rolls show that a market every Wednesday and a fair on St Augustine’s day were granted to Simon son of Walter by King John.

From Project Gutenberg

After the adjournment of the legislature, the governor reappointed McClernand, who sued out a writ of quo warranto to oust Field.

From Project Gutenberg