What is the primary function of a writ of habeas corpus?

A writ of habeas corpus primarily serves to challenge unlawful detention. This legal instrument allows individuals who believe they are being held without just cause or lawful authority to request that a court examine the legality of their detention. The significance of this writ lies in its function as a safeguard against arbitrary and unlawful imprisonment, ensuring that no one can be detained without sufficient legal justification.

In essence, the writ acts as a mechanism for protecting individual freedom and upholding the rule of law. When filed, it compels the authority holding the detainee to present evidence or justification for the detention, thus providing a check on the power of the state over individuals' liberties. This principle is rooted in the legal concept that everyone has the right to be free from unjust detention, and courts must intervene to uphold this right when necessary.