Define: Comites Paleys

Comites paleys, also known as counts or earls, possessed unique powers within a county palatine, granting them the ability to exercise royal privileges in that specific region. In medieval England, these comites paleys held great importance as they wielded substantial authority within their respective counties.

Comites paleys, pronounced kom-uh-teez pa-lays, is a term from Law French that refers to counts or earls palatine. These individuals have the authority to exercise royal privileges in a county palatine. For instance, the Earl of Chester was a comites paleys because he had the power to administer justice and collect taxes in his county palatine of Chester. Similarly, the Bishop of Durham was also a comites paleys because he had similar powers in his county palatine of Durham. These examples demonstrate how comites paleys were individuals who held significant power and authority within their respective county palatines.

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This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.