Return of Writ Law and Legal Definition
Return of writ refers to an inscription, made by the sheriff, or other ministerial officer, of the manner in which s/he has executed a writ. It is the response of the court or officer to whom a writ of certiorari or a petition or writ of mandamus is directed, answering the allegations of fact in the petition or writ. For instance, responding to a writ of habeas corpus by a sheriff or other officer having the custody of a prisoner, stating in form prescribed by statute, the material facts respecting the detention of the prisoner.
