Writ of mandamus requires a judicially enforceable right to compel performance of public duties and is discretionary. A writ of mandamus commands performance of a specific act constituting a public duty where the applicant holds a judicially enforceable right and no specific adequate legal remedy exists; it may also issue when alternative remedies are less convenient or effective. The remedy is discretionary, requiring the applicant to show a personal legal right to insist on performance of the statutory or public duty sought to be enforced.