What is the purpose of a writ of certiorari?

The purpose of a writ of certiorari is to obtain records from a lower court, making it the correct choice. This legal instrument is used primarily by higher courts, notably the Supreme Court of the United States, to review decisions made by lower courts. When a party seeks a writ of certiorari, they are requesting that the higher court examine the records and proceedings of a case to determine whether there were any significant legal errors that warrant a review or a new trial.

The use of a writ of certiorari does not initiate new legal proceedings nor does it reform policing practices; instead, it specifically aims to facilitate the appellate process by allowing higher courts to access pertinent case documents. It also does not serve to dismiss cases outright, as this function is typically fulfilled by motions for dismissal under specific legal grounds. Instead, the writ helps ensure that justice is upheld by allowing for the review of lower court rulings when substantial legal issues are at stake.