What is a writ of certiorari?

A writ of certiorari is specifically a directive issued by a higher court, typically the Supreme Court, to a lower court to send up the records of a case for review. This mechanism is essential in the judicial system, as it allows the higher court to assess whether legal standards were properly applied in the lower court's decision. The granting of certiorari indicates that the higher court has agreed to examine the case, which often involves important questions about federal law or constitutional interpretation. This tool plays a pivotal role in maintaining the uniformity and integrity of the law across different jurisdictions.

The other options reflect different legal concepts but do not accurately define what a writ of certiorari entails. For example, an order to release a prisoner relates more to habeas corpus, a directive for records is specific to the review process, and summonses pertain to requiring an individual's presence in court. Thus, the understanding of a writ of certiorari as a request for case records for review is crucial for comprehending its function within the judicial system.