Mandamus (writ of)
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Mandamus (writ of) procedure
A court order commanding a government official or lower court to perform a clear legal duty they are refusing to do.
Technical: An extraordinary writ compelling performance of a clear, nondiscretionary duty where no other adequate remedy exists; famously discussed in Marbury v. Madison, 5 U.S. (1 Cranch) 137 (1803).
Sources: Cornell LII — Mandamus
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