Legal Definitions - Heralds' College

The Heralds' College, also known as the College of Arms, is a unique official body in England. Its primary responsibilities include the creation, regulation, and recording of coats of arms (also called armorial insignia), the official documentation of family trees and genealogies, and advising on matters of formal social ranking or precedence. Established centuries ago, it serves as the authoritative source for these specific aspects of English heritage and identity, and its records are considered legally sound evidence for family lineage. The College also has the authority to officially grant new coats of arms and to register certain changes of name.

Here are some examples of how the Heralds' College's functions apply:

• Granting a New Coat of Arms: Imagine a successful entrepreneur in England, whose family has never had a coat of arms, wishes to establish one for their descendants to symbolize their legacy. They would apply to the Heralds' College. The College's heralds would design a unique coat of arms, ensuring it adheres to heraldic rules and does not conflict with existing arms. Once approved, the College would officially grant and record these new armorial insignia, making them legally recognized for the family.

• Verifying a Genealogical Claim: Suppose a person believes they are the rightful heir to a dormant title or a specific historical property, but they need to prove their direct lineage to a particular ancestor from several centuries ago. They would consult the Heralds' College. The College maintains extensive records of family trees and genealogies, often based on historical inquiries. Their official documentation and verification of the individual's pedigree would be considered strong, authoritative evidence in any legal or formal claim regarding inheritance or title.

• Determining Formal Precedence at a State Event: During the planning of a major national ceremony in England, organizers need to ensure that various dignitaries, officials, and members of the peerage are seated or processed in the correct order of formal ranking. The Heralds' College would be consulted to advise on these matters of precedence. Based on their deep knowledge of historical and current protocols, titles, and official rankings, they would provide the authoritative guidance necessary to ensure the event adheres to established formal order.