The Articles of the Eyre, also known as capitula itineris, were a series of inquiries made by judges to the members of a community in order to determine if any laws were violated during the court’s absence. This practice aided the judges in apprehending wrongdoers and generating revenue for the king through the imposition of fines.
During the Middle Ages, justices in eyre would travel to different towns to hold court sessions. Upon arrival, they would conduct an inquiry known as the articles of the eyre. This involved asking the locals a series of questions to determine if any breaches of the law had occurred during the court’s absence. By asking questions like “Has anyone been stealing from their neighbours?” or “Has anyone been causing trouble in the streets?”, the justices aimed to uncover criminal behaviour. The answers provided by the community members would help identify individuals who had broken the law, allowing the justices to impose penalties and maintain law and order. Additionally, the levying of penalties served as a means to raise revenue for the Crown. Overall, the articles of the eyre played a crucial role in uncovering criminal activity, imposing penalties, and generating income for the Crown.
Articles of the Eyre were legal regulations and instructions issued by the Justices in Eyre, who were itinerant judges appointed by the English monarch to hear and decide cases in various regions of the country.
Articles of the Eyre were first introduced in England during the 12th century, under the reign of King Henry II.
The purpose of Articles of the Eyre was to establish uniform legal standards and procedures across different regions of England, ensuring consistent administration of justice.
The Articles of the Eyre were binding on all individuals within the jurisdiction of the itinerant justices, including both commoners and nobles.
The Articles of the Eyre covered a wide range of legal matters, including criminal offenses, land disputes, inheritance issues, taxation, and the regulation of trade and commerce.
Yes, the Articles of the Eyre were applicable to all regions where the itinerant justices held their sessions, ensuring consistent legal standards throughout the country.
Yes, the Articles of the Eyre could be modified or amended by the itinerant justices based on the specific needs and circumstances of the regions they were presiding over.
The itinerant justices had the authority to enforce the Articles of the Eyre through the imposition of fines, imprisonment, or other appropriate penalties for non-compliance.
Yes, the Articles of the Eyre played a significant role in the development of the English legal system, contributing to the establishment of common law principles and the centralization of legal authority.
While the Articles of the Eyre are no longer in force, their historical significance and influence on the English legal system make them relevant for legal scholars and historians studying the evolution of law and justice in England.
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This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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