What is a formal written command issued by a court known as?

A formal written command issued by a court is referred to as a writ. This legal document is ordered by a judge or court and directs the individual to whom it is addressed to perform or cease a specific act. Writs can cover a variety of civil and criminal matters and serve as a means for the court to exercise its jurisdiction and enforce its orders.

The concept of a writ is foundational in legal proceedings, as it provides a formal mechanism for the court to compel actions or to protect the rights of parties involved in a case. Various types of writs, such as writs of habeas corpus or writs of mandamus, exist, each serving specific legal purposes. This distinguishes it from the other options listed, which do not represent a formal court command in the same sense.

A letter of intent typically expresses an intention to establish a formal agreement and is not a court order. A subpoena is a document that orders a person to appear in court or produce evidence, which, while it has a legal basis, is different from a writ. An affidavit is a written statement confirmed by oath, used as evidence in court, but is also not a court-issued command. Thus, the term "writ" precisely identifies the formal command nature