Weekly Report 51: Mandamus Action
- Shrinidhi Joshi
- Jan 28, 2017
- 1 min read
On my second mentor visit, I came across the term 'mandamus action" and had no idea what it was. After some research, I learned some very interesting facts about it. First of all though, mandamus action is a lawsuit that compels individuals, such as police officers and government employees to complete a legal duty they have but have not performed. To utilize mandamus action, a writ is issued from a court that commands individuals, groups, or corporations. If the person or group the writ is directed at refuses to comply, they can be held in contempt of court. Failing to comply with a mandamus order can lead to fines and incarceration. Now, here are the interesting facts.
The term mandamus literally means "we command"
The first known use of mandamus action was in 1760
Mandamus action originated from English courts and spread to ex-British colonies.
It is used in England, Wales, India, Australia, and the United States.
~Shrinidhi Joshi
Comments