Legal Definitions - bones gents

Bones gents is a historical legal term that refers to individuals considered qualified, competent, and suitable for a particular civic or legal duty. While literally translating from Law French as "good men," its legal meaning emphasized their fitness and capability, particularly for roles requiring sound judgment and impartiality. Historically, this term was most commonly associated with men deemed eligible to serve on a jury.

• Example 1: Jury Selection in a Historical Court

  Imagine a medieval English court where a serious crime, like a theft, was being tried. The local sheriff would be tasked with assembling a jury. He would seek out "bones gents" from the local community – men known for their good character, property ownership (which often implied a certain standing and responsibility), and ability to understand the proceedings. These individuals were chosen because they were considered capable of listening to evidence and delivering a fair verdict.

  This example illustrates "bones gents" as individuals possessing the specific qualifications (good character, property, understanding) necessary to competently perform the duty of a juror, ensuring the integrity of the legal process.

• Example 2: Assessing Property Disputes

  In 15th-century England, if a dispute arose over the boundaries of a lord's estate or the value of damaged property after a local incident, the local authorities might appoint a small group of "bones gents" to investigate and provide an impartial assessment. These would be respected members of the community, perhaps experienced landowners or merchants, whose judgment was trusted to resolve the matter fairly.

  Here, "bones gents" refers to competent individuals chosen for their perceived ability to conduct an investigation and make a fair, informed judgment on a matter requiring specific expertise or impartiality beyond just jury duty.

• Example 3: Appointment to Public Office

  During the early modern period, when a town needed to appoint new officials for maintaining roads, collecting local taxes, or overseeing markets, they would often select "bones gents." These were typically men of standing, education, and proven integrity within the community, ensuring the efficient and honest administration of public services rather than appointing someone unqualified or untrustworthy.

  This example demonstrates "bones gents" as qualified and trustworthy individuals selected for their competence and suitability to hold positions of public responsibility, highlighting the broader application of the term beyond just jury service.