Medieval Courts System

Ever wondered how criminals were caught and punished in medieval times? The system was actually quite organised, with different courts handling different types of cases depending on how serious they were.

Royal Courts & County Assizes handled the most serious criminal cases. What made these special was that juries came from the criminal's own area - they'd swear an oath before God and use their local knowledge to decide guilt or innocence. Professional paid judges decided the sentences and travelled around counties to try cases.

From 1293, Edward I made this system official by ordering royal judges to visit each county 2-3 times yearly. These county assizes were so effective they lasted until 1971! Meanwhile, Quarter Sessions developed when JPs (Justices of the Peace) were appointed in 1361 to take over local court duties from sheriffs.

Manor Courts actually dealt with most day-to-day crime. Run by the lord or his steward, they handled everything from theft and fights to land disputes and debt. Juries of wealthier villagers decided cases or passed them to higher courts, making this a truly community-based system.

Quick Fact: By 1500, manor courts were losing power as the King's JPs took over more cases - showing how royal authority gradually replaced local control.