What is the function of a writ of certiorari?

The function of a writ of certiorari is to order a review of a lower court's decision. When a party believes that a legal error occurred in a lower court's ruling, they can request the Supreme Court to review the case through a writ of certiorari. This tool is crucial for ensuring that important legal principles can be examined and interpreted by the higher court, which provides an opportunity for the Supreme Court to address issues that may have broader implications or to resolve conflicting decisions among lower courts.

The writ serves to bring cases from lower appellate courts to the Supreme Court to ensure uniformity in the law and to uphold the judicial system's integrity. This process also supports the Supreme Court in exercising its discretion, as they choose which cases to review based on various factors, including the significance of the issues at stake and the potential for setting legal precedents.

The other options do not accurately reflect the purpose of a writ of certiorari. A writ does not initiate new trials, mandate new laws, or issue rulings without deliberation. Instead, it specifically functions to request that the Supreme Court review existing cases to determine their legitimacy and adherence to legal standards.