Which term explains that an authority has to prove to a court why it is holding someone? If the government cannot show why a person is being held in jail, that person must be released.

a. Habeas Corpus

b. Ex Post Facto Law

c. Bill of Attainder

d. Independent Judiciary

A) Habeas Corpus

Explanation:

Habeas Corpus is a legal action or writ that demands that a person under arrest be brought to judgement in a court of law, to secure his release, unless there are legal reasons which justify their detention.

In many instances, the law enforcement authorities may arrest citizens and detain them for a long time without charging them. The Habeas Corpus prohibits this kind of incidence and abuse of power.

The court hears the case brought forward by the prosecution and decides whether there is a lawful basis for detaining a person. Based on the evidence the court finds, the Judge may grant the inmate release from prison or a reduction in sentence.