Assizes
Assizes[edit | edit source]
The term assizes refers to the periodic courts held in various counties of England and Wales until 1972, when they were replaced by the Crown Court. These courts were responsible for administering justice in both civil and criminal cases. The assizes were a crucial part of the English legal system, providing a means for the central government to extend its influence into the provinces.
Historical Background[edit | edit source]
The origin of the assizes can be traced back to the 12th century, during the reign of Henry II of England. The king sought to centralize and standardize the administration of justice, which led to the establishment of itinerant justices who traveled the country to hear cases. This system was formalized by the Assize of Clarendon in 1166, which laid the groundwork for the development of the assizes.
Function and Structure[edit | edit source]
The assizes were held at regular intervals, typically twice a year, in each county. They were presided over by judges from the central courts in London, who traveled on circuits to hear cases. The assizes dealt with serious criminal cases, such as murder, rape, and robbery, as well as important civil disputes.
The assizes were divided into several types, including:
- Crown Assizes: These dealt with criminal cases and were the most well-known type of assizes.
- Nisi Prius Assizes: These handled civil cases, particularly those involving disputes over property and contracts.
Decline and Abolition[edit | edit source]
By the 19th century, the assizes began to decline in importance due to the development of more permanent local courts and the increasing complexity of the legal system. The Courts Act 1971 eventually abolished the assizes, transferring their jurisdiction to the newly established Crown Court.
Legacy[edit | edit source]
The legacy of the assizes can still be seen in the modern legal system of England and Wales. The Crown Court, which replaced the assizes, continues to handle serious criminal cases and some civil matters. The itinerant nature of the assizes also influenced the development of circuit judges, who continue to travel to different locations to hear cases.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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