Legal Definitions - festing-man

The term festing-man is a historical legal concept referring to an individual who acted as a guarantor or surety for another person. In medieval English society, particularly within systems of communal responsibility, a festing-man was responsible for ensuring the good conduct, appearance in court, or fulfillment of obligations by another member of their community or group. Essentially, they vouched for someone else, bearing a degree of legal responsibility if that person failed to meet their duties.

• Example 1: Guaranteeing Appearance in Court

  Imagine a small medieval village where a local farmer is accused of poaching on the lord's land. Instead of being immediately imprisoned, two respected elders of the village step forward and declare themselves "festing-men" for the accused. They promise the local reeve (a chief magistrate of a town or district) that they will ensure the farmer appears at the next manorial court session to face the charges. If the farmer were to flee or fail to appear, the festing-men would be held accountable, potentially facing fines or other penalties themselves.

  This example illustrates a festing-man acting as a surety for another's appearance in court, taking on personal responsibility for their presence.

• Example 2: Guaranteeing Good Behavior and Obligations

  Consider a situation where a young apprentice in a bustling medieval town has a history of minor mischief. To secure his position with a master craftsman, a prominent guild member agrees to be his "festing-man." This means the guild member guarantees to the master craftsman that the apprentice will adhere to the terms of his apprenticeship, including diligent work and good behavior. Should the apprentice repeatedly shirk his duties or cause significant trouble, the festing-man would be expected to intervene or face consequences for the apprentice's misconduct, potentially including financial penalties or loss of standing within the guild.

  Here, the festing-man acts as a guarantor for the fulfillment of an agreement and for the good conduct of another, taking on responsibility for their actions and adherence to obligations.