What is a petition for a writ of certiorari?

• A. A request to the Supreme Court that it review a lower court case.
• B. A request to the Court of Appeals to review a state supreme court decision.
• C. An order directing a witness to appear in court.
• D. A request for a new trial in the same court.

Answer: (A)

A petition for a writ of certiorari is a formal request to the Supreme Court asking it to review a lower court’s decision. It’s the primary vehicle for most cases to reach the Supreme Court, and the Court decides which petitions to grant on a discretionary basis. If certiorari is granted, the Court will hear the case; if denied, the lower court’s ruling stands. This is not about compelling a witness, requesting a new trial, or asking a Court of Appeals to review a state supreme court decision.