Legal Definitions - coronatore eligendo

Coronatore eligendo is a Latin legal term that historically referred to a writ, or formal written order, issued by the English Crown to a sheriff. This writ commanded the sheriff to oversee the election of a new coroner for a specific county or district. It was used when a vacancy arose due to death, resignation, removal, or other reasons, ensuring the continuity of this important legal office.

Here are some examples illustrating the application of coronatore eligendo:

• Example 1: Vacancy Due to Death

  Imagine a situation in 14th-century Wiltshire, England, where the county's long-serving coroner, Sir Thomas, suddenly passed away. His death left a critical void in the local administration of justice, as coroners were responsible for investigating suspicious deaths and finding treasure trove.

  To address this, the King's chancery would issue a coronatore eligendo writ to the Sheriff of Wiltshire. This writ would legally compel the sheriff to assemble the freeholders (landowners) of the county to elect a suitable replacement for Sir Thomas, ensuring that the county's legal functions related to coronial duties could continue without undue interruption.

• Example 2: Removal for Misconduct

  Consider a scenario in the early 16th century where a coroner in the county of Essex was found to be consistently neglecting his duties, failing to hold proper inquests, and even accepting bribes. Such misconduct would render him unfit for office and undermine public trust.

  Upon receiving complaints and conducting an investigation, the Crown would issue a coronatore eligendo writ to the Sheriff of Essex. This writ would not only authorize the formal removal of the corrupt coroner but also mandate the immediate election of a new, trustworthy individual by the county's freeholders to restore integrity to the office.

• Example 3: Resignation or Relocation

  Suppose a coroner in medieval Kent decided to resign from his post to pursue a religious life or sold his estates and moved to a different county, thereby vacating his office. As coroners were typically required to reside within the county they served, his departure would create a vacancy.

  In such a case, the Crown would issue a coronatore eligendo writ to the Sheriff of Kent. This writ would instruct the sheriff to arrange for the election of a new coroner by the county's freeholders, ensuring that the vital legal function of investigating deaths and other duties associated with the coroner's office remained continuously filled.