Habeas Corpus Suspension

Definition

This is the act of temporarily setting aside the right of habeas corpus, which protects individuals from unlawful detention. During such suspension, authorities can arrest and detain individuals without a court hearing.

Analogy

Imagine if your parents grounded you indefinitely without giving you a chance to explain yourself. That's similar to habeas corpus suspension - it allows for detention without trial.

Related terms

Bill of Rights: The first ten amendments to the U.S Constitution that protect individual rights and liberties. The right to habeas corpus is implied in these amendments.

Civil War Era: The period during which President Lincoln suspended habeas corpus in an effort to quell opposition in certain strategic areas.

Patriot Act: A law passed after 9/11 attacks that expanded government's surveillance powers and ability to detain suspected terrorists, sometimes criticized for infringing on civil liberties like habeas corpus.