Our democracy is built on the promise of liberty and justice for all—and that promise starts with due process. One of the most fundamental protections in our legal system is habeas corpus, the right to challenge unlawful detention. Latin for “you have the body,” habeas corpus ensures that if someone is held by the government, they must be brought before a judge and told why.

This right is more than a legal formality—it’s a critical check on government power. Without it, people could be imprisoned without explanation, without access to a court, and without a way to defend themselves. Habeas corpus helps guarantee that everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, is treated fairly under the law.

Habeas corpus has recently made headlines in connection to the administration’s mass deportation efforts - both in recent court rulings and as top white house officials announced they are considering suspending the writ of habeas corpus.

This right dates back centuries, but it’s just as critical today. Habeas corpus helps uphold due process, limits government power, and protects all of us—regardless of political beliefs—from being detained without cause. In times of crisis or unrest, it’s especially important to remember that our democracy depends not just on elections, but on the fair and transparent rule of law.

At the League, we believe that informed citizens are empowered citizens. Understanding protections like habeas corpus helps us advocate for a system that’s truly just, accountable, and rooted in the values we share.