Which term embodies the belief about the authors' intent guiding constitutional interpretation?

• A. Writ of habeas corpus
• B. Writ of certiorari
• C. Rule of four
• D. Original intent

Answer: (D)

Original intent is the idea that the meaning of the Constitution is fixed by the framers’ intentions at the time it was written and ratified. This interpretive approach, often called originalism, guides how judges read the text, emphasizing historical sources and the framers’ purposes to determine constitutional meaning. The other terms are about court procedure or processes—habeas corpus is a remedy challenging unlawful detention, certiorari is an order for a higher court to review a decision, and the Rule of Four sets how many justices must agree to hear a case. So, the belief about authors’ intent guiding interpretation is original intent.