Legal Definitions - vicontiel writ

Definition: A vicontiel writ is a type of legal document used in medieval England to order a sheriff or other official to perform a specific duty, such as arresting someone or seizing property.

Example: One example of a vicontiel writ is the writ of habeas corpus, which requires a person who is holding someone else in custody to bring that person before a court and show cause for their detention.

Explanation: The example of the writ of habeas corpus illustrates how a vicontiel writ can be used to protect individual rights and ensure that the law is being followed. By ordering someone to bring a detained person before a court, the writ of habeas corpus prevents arbitrary detention and allows for a fair hearing of the case.