What is a writ of habeas corpus? A judicial order directing a person to have the body of another brought before a tribunal at a certain time and place.Predates the 13th century. Habeas corpus, in other words, is a petition that asks the court to completely dismiss the charges against you over the Prosecutor's objection. Put simply, habeas corpus is a writ (petition) that can be used in a narrow set of circumstances to bring the case of a state prisoner. The purpose of the _____ is to obtain the release of a person illegally confined or restrained of his liberty. a. Write of Garnishment b. Differed over emancipation freedom of speech the writ of habeas corpus the draft and the war s legacy for American society. The privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in cases of rebellion or invasion, the public safety may require it. The Act authorized the President to deploy federal troops to counter the Klan and to suspend the writ of habeas corpus to make arrests without charge.