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How to Say "writ" in Spanish

English → Spanish

auto

OW-tohˈau.to

NounC1formal
Use 'auto' when referring to a formal legal document that embodies a judicial decision, ruling, or decree, such as a writ of indictment or a court order that makes a determination.
A heavy wooden judge's gavel firmly resting on a wooden sound block on a mahogany desk, symbolizing a court ruling.

Examples

El juez emitió un auto de procesamiento contra el acusado.

The judge issued a writ of indictment against the accused.

El abogado está estudiando el auto para preparar la apelación.

The lawyer is studying the ruling to prepare the appeal.

mandamiento

man-dah-myehn-tohmandaˈmjento

NounC1formal
Choose 'mandamiento' when the 'writ' is a formal written order from a court that directs someone to do something, like a warrant for arrest or imprisonment.
A rolled parchment scroll with a red wax seal and a purple ribbon.

Examples

El juez dictó un mandamiento de prisión.

The judge issued a warrant for imprisonment.

Recibió un mandamiento de pago por la deuda pendiente.

He received a payment order for the outstanding debt.

Nouns with 'de'

In legal Spanish, 'mandamiento' is almost always followed by 'de' and the action being ordered, such as 'mandamiento de embargo' (seizure order).

Auto vs. Mandamiento

Learners often confuse 'auto' and 'mandamiento' because both are formal legal terms. Remember that 'auto' is more about the document itself as a ruling, while 'mandamiento' is the court's command or directive to act.

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