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Habeas Corpus

Categories: Constitutional, Procedure

Definition (1910 Edition)

Lat. (You have the body.) The name given to a variety of writs, (of which these were anciently the emphatic words,) having for their object to bring a party before a court or judge. In common usage, and whenever these words are used alone, they are understood to mean the habeas corpus ad sudjictendum, (see infra.)

UK Law Commentary

Status: ✅ Still applies. The great writ of liberty — requires a person in custody to be brought before a court. Key statute: Habeas Corpus Act 1679 — remains in force. Modern application: challenges to detention, immigration custody, anti-terrorism powers.

Modern Application

📜 Habeas Corpus Act 1679 • Human Rights Act 1998 Sch.1 Art.5 • Senior Courts Act 1981 s.54 • legislation.gov.uk
Source: Black's Law Dictionary, 2nd Edition (1910) — Public Domain. UK commentary and modern updates are original additions. This entry is for educational reference only and does not constitute legal advice.