What is "writ of protection"

Protection \Pro*tec"tion\, n. [L. protectio: cf. F. protection.]

1. The act of protecting, or the state of being protected; preservation from loss, injury, or annoyance; defense; shelter; as, the weak need protection.

   To your protection I commend me, gods.
   --Shak.

2. That which protects or preserves from injury; a defense; a shield; a refuge.

   Let them rise up . . . and be your protection.
   --Deut. xxxii. 38.

3. A writing that protects or secures from molestation or arrest; a pass; a safe-conduct; a passport.

   He . . . gave them protections under his hand.
   --Macaulay.

4. (Polit. Econ.) A theory, or a policy, of protecting the producers in a country from foreign competition in the home market by the imposition of such discriminating duties on goods of foreign production as will restrict or prevent their importation; -- opposed to free trade. Writ of protection. (Law)

   1. A writ by which the king formerly exempted a person from arrest; -- now disused. [Eng.]
      --Blackstone.

   2. A judicial writ issued to a person required to attend court, as party, juror, etc., intended to secure him from arrest in coming, staying, and returning.

      Syn: Preservation; defense; guard; shelter; refuge; security; safety.