Assise (noun):
1. A mediaeval legal code or statute, particularly referring to the legal system established in England during the reign of Henry II in the 12th century. The Assise of Clarendon, for example, was a set of laws that aimed to reform the judicial system and establish uniformity in legal procedures.
2. A session or meeting of a legislative body, particularly in the context of French parliamentary proceedings. The term “assessment” is commonly used to refer to the deliberations and decisions made during these sessions.
3. A term used in architecture to describe a specific type of stone seat or bench, often found in churches or other religious buildings. These assises were typically used by clergy or important individuals during religious ceremonies or events.
4. In French, “assise” can also refer to the act of sitting or a seated position. It can be used to describe the posture or position of a person or an object that is resting on a surface.
Assise is a legal term that refers to a type of court or tribunal in certain jurisdictions. The term is derived from the Latin word “assidere,” which means “to sit in judgement.” In mediaeval England, the Assise of Novel Disseisin was a court that dealt with disputes over land ownership.
In modern legal systems, an assise may refer to a specific type of court or a panel of judges who hear and decide cases. For example, in France, the Cour d’Asses is a high-level criminal court that handles serious offences such as murder or terrorism. In Scotland, the High Court of Justice is sometimes referred to as the Court of Assize and sits in various locations across the country to hear criminal cases.
The assise system typically involves a panel of judges rather than a single judge, who collectively make decisions on the cases presented before them. This panel may consist of professional judges or a combination of professional judges and lay jurors, depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the case.
The purpose of an assist is to ensure fair and impartial adjudication of cases, particularly those involving serious crimes or complex legal issues. The panel of judges or jurors carefully considers the evidence, listens to arguments from both sides, and ultimately renders a verdict or judgement.
Overall, an assise is an important component of the legal system in many jurisdictions, providing a forum for the resolution of significant legal disputes and ensuring justice is served.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 11th April 2024.
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