Formal orders are instructions or commands issued by a higher authority. FIATS, DICTUMS, EDICTS, DICTA, WRITS, and DECREES are all terms used to describe formal orders. FIATS are authoritative commands or orders issued by a sovereign or other competent authority. DICTUMS are authoritative pronouncements or orders issued by a court or other body. EDICTS are formal orders or commands issued by a ruler or government. DICTA are authoritative decisions or orders issued by a court or other body. WRITS are formal written orders issued by a court or other body. DECREES are authoritative orders or commands issued by a ruler or government.