writ of certiorari

American  

noun

Law.

1. certiorari.

---

Etymology

Origin of writ of certiorari

First recorded in 1815–25

Example Sentences

The judicial system is famous for its thicket of impenetrable legalese, with terms like “nolo contendere” and “writ of certiorari” befuddling laypeople trying to keep up with courtroom drama.

From Washington Post

“This Court’s review is unwarranted, and the petition for a writ of certiorari should be denied.”

From Seattle Times

When a party that has lost in a lower court wishes to obtain the Supreme Court’s review, it files a petition for a “writ of certiorari.”

From Los Angeles Times

Only two justices — Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito — voted to take up the Grimm case, two shy of the four justices needed to grant writ of certiorari.

From Washington Times

In order for the Supreme Court to hear the case, a writ of certiorari from at least four of the nine sitting justices must be granted.

From Salon