Legal Definitions - writ system

Definition: The writ system was a procedural system used in common law where a plaintiff would start a legal action by obtaining the appropriate type of original writ.

Example: If someone wanted to sue another person for trespassing on their property, they would need to obtain a writ of trespass from the court. This writ would then be served to the defendant, who would have to appear in court to defend themselves.

Explanation: The writ system was a way for plaintiffs to initiate legal action in common law. The type of writ obtained would depend on the nature of the claim being made. The example of a writ of trespass illustrates how a plaintiff would use this system to start a legal action against someone who had trespassed on their property.