What is the term for any written judicial order issued by a court?

The term for any written judicial order issued by a court is "writ." A writ is a formal legal document that directs a person to perform or refrain from performing a specific act. It is a broad term that encompasses various types of orders issued by the courts, such as writs of habeas corpus, mandamus, or injunctions. Each of these writs serves a specific legal purpose but fundamentally represents the authority of the court to compel or prohibit certain actions.

In contrast, a summons is a document that informs a defendant that a legal action has been initiated against them and requires their appearance in court. A subpoena is a command to appear at a particular time and place to give testimony or produce evidence in a legal proceeding. An affidavit is a written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation, often used as evidence but not a judicial order itself. Thus, while the other terms serve important functions within legal proceedings, "writ" specifically relates to a court-issued order.