Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

habeas corpus

noun

ˈheɪ.bi.əs ˈkɔːr.pəs

Definition

A legal principle that protects individuals from unlawful detention or imprisonment.

Examples

The judge issued a writ of habeas corpus to review the detainee’s case.
In many legal systems, habeas corpus is a fundamental safeguard against arbitrary detention.
The prisoner filed for habeas corpus, seeking to contest the legality of his imprisonment.

Meaning

The term ‘habeas corpus’ is commonly used to refer to a person’s right to challenge the legality of their detention or to be brought before a court to determine if their imprisonment is lawful.