What is the purpose of a writ in legal matters?

The purpose of a writ in legal matters is fundamentally to serve as a formal order issued by a court. It directs an individual or entity to perform a specific act or to restrain from performing an act. This aligns with the definition provided in the chosen answer, which highlights a writ as a written application to the court for action on a legal matter.

Writs can take various forms, such as a writ of habeas corpus, which seeks to determine whether a person's detention is lawful, or a writ of mandamus, which orders a government official to perform a duty they are required to complete. Thus, the essence of a writ encompasses its role in prompting legal actions or enforcing legal rights, making it essential in guiding the course of a judicial matter.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the nature of a writ. A written decision by a judge is termed a ruling or judgment, distinct from a writ. Similarly, a legal brief for summoning a witness does not fall under the category of writs as it serves a different purpose in the legal process. Lastly, a termination notice for a court case does not relate to the directive nature of a writ; rather, it indicates the conclusion of proceedings.