Legal Definitions - supervisory control

Definition: Supervisory control refers to the control exercised by a higher court over a lower court. This control includes prohibiting the lower court from acting outside of its jurisdiction and reversing any extrajurisdictional acts.

Example: A higher court may exercise supervisory control over a lower court by issuing a writ of mandamus. This writ is a command issued by a superior court to compel a lower court or government officer to perform mandatory or purely ministerial duties correctly. For instance, if a lower court fails to follow proper procedures in a case, a higher court may issue a writ of mandamus to compel the lower court to correct its actions.

Explanation: The example illustrates how a higher court can exercise supervisory control over a lower court by issuing a writ of mandamus. This writ is a tool that allows a higher court to ensure that lower courts or government officers are following proper procedures and performing their duties correctly. By issuing a writ of mandamus, a higher court can correct any errors made by a lower court and ensure that justice is served.