Habeas Corpus is a legal principle that protects individuals from being unlawfully detained or imprisoned. It allows a person to challenge their detention in court, ensuring that they cannot be held without just cause. The term itself means "you shall have the body" in Latin, emphasizing the right to appear before a judge.
This principle is crucial in upholding civil liberties and preventing abuse of power by authorities. If someone believes they are being held without proper legal justification, they can file a writ of habeas corpus. This process helps maintain the balance between individual rights and government authority, safeguarding democracy and justice.