What is a praecipe?

A praecipe is a formal written command or request directed to a court or court clerk, instructing a specific action to be taken. It often serves as a directive to compel a person to act in a particular way or to provide a reason for their action or inaction. This practice is commonly seen in legal settings where one party seeks a court's authority to require another party to perform a specific task, often related to legal filings or court appearances.

In this context, knowing the nature of a praecipe is crucial for understanding its role within legal procedures, particularly in litigation. Other choices may relate to various legal terms and concepts, but none capture the exact definition and function of a praecipe as a command to act or to show cause.