1250 - 1500 Law Enforcement Flashcards
What were tithings and what was their purpose?
Tithings were groups of adult men (10 strong). The members were responsible for reporting crimes of the others.
What could sheriffs do to tackle criminal gangs in 1250 - 1500?
Sheriffs could call together a posse to deal with more problematic criminals.
What were chief constables of the hundred?
Chief Constables of the Hundred were wealthy landowners who ensured all men between 15 and 60 were ready and equipped to fight.
What were parish constables?
Local men who ensured all other men practised archery each Sunday, were ready to serve the king and also arrested strangers.
What kinds of crimes would be handled at royal courts?
Royal courts were for the most serious crimes. The judges were professionals.
What kinds of crimes would be handled at quarter sessions?
Quarter sessions mainly handled crimes of low status, such as some theft.
What kinds of crimes would be handled at manor courts?
Manor courts usually addressed the majority of petty crimes within England.
What were justices of the peace?
Justice of the peace was a position created in the mid 14th century that took on some of the role of the sheriff.
When were towns first required to have watchmen by the law?
Towns first had to employ watchmen in the late 1200s.
What were borough courts?
Borough courts were courts that dealt with anyone who had lived in their town for over a year.
