mandamus

American  

[man-dey-muhs] / mænˈdeɪ məs /

noun

plural

mandamuses

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

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verb (used with object)

1. to intimidate or serve with such writ.

mandamus British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of mandamus

From the Latin word mandāmus we 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 • May 16, 2024

Branstad, but Dennison was partially overturned as the court held that federal courts could mandate extradition through mandamus.

From Slate • Jul. 29, 2022

The Supreme Court ruling only dismisses the petition — submitted by a group of parents in Chesapeake — that sought an unconventional form of relief called a writ of mandamus.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 7, 2022

The Supreme Court ruling only dismisses the petition - submitted by a group of parents in Chesapeake - that sought an unconventional form of relief called a writ of mandamus.

From Washington Times • Feb. 7, 2022

As the actions of slander and libel have been described, only two others require notice, mandamus and quo warranto.

From Putnam's Handy Law Book for the Layman by Bolles, Albert Sidney