What is a writ of mandamus?

A writ of mandamus is a legal order issued by a court of law that requires an individual or organization to do something, or to stop doing something. In the state of Hawaii, a writ of mandamus is most often used to compel government agencies or government officials to perform duties that are mandated by law. For example, if an individual believes that a government agency is not providing the services it is mandated to provide, the individual may file a lawsuit and seek a writ of mandamus from the court. In the context of courts in Hawaii, a writ of mandamus is typically issued by a Hawaii Circuit Court judge. This is a judicial order which directs a government agency or official to take some action, or to refrain from taking some action, in order to comply with the law. A writ of mandamus may also be issued by an appellate court to a lower court, if an appeal of a lower court decision is successful. The writ of mandamus is an important legal remedy because it allows individuals to hold the government accountable for following the law. It gives those who feel that they have been wronged an opportunity to seek justice, and it provides a mechanism for individuals to hold the government to its own standards and laws.

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What is a writ of mandamus?

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