Which Latin term means 'to have the body'?

• A. Habeas corpus
• B. Corpus delicti
• C. Ex parte
• D. Amicus curiae

Answer: (A)

Habeas corpus is about protecting you from being jailed without legal justification. It literally translates to “you shall have the body,” reflecting the historical writ that orders authorities to produce the detainee in court so a judge can determine whether the detention is lawful. This process ensures due process and prevents unlawful confinement by giving individuals a rapid check on their custody.

The other terms refer to different ideas. Corpus delicti means the “body of the crime,” i.e., the substantial facts proving that a crime occurred, not about confinement. Ex parte refers to a proceeding or decision made by one party in the absence of the other, often in urgent situations. Amicus curiae means “friend of the court,” a non-party who provides information to help the court. These concepts are unrelated to the direct safeguard against unlawful detention that habeas corpus provides.