Legal Definitions - justicer

A 'justicer' is an archaic term, meaning it is no longer in common use, that refers to an individual who was responsible for administering justice. Historically, this person would have functioned as a judge or magistrate, making legal decisions and enforcing laws.

• Feudal Lord as Justicer:

  Imagine a medieval village where two farmers are in a heated dispute over the ownership of a particular plot of land. The local lord, who holds authority over the village, convenes a small court, listens to both sides, examines evidence, and then issues a binding decision on who rightfully owns the land. He then ensures his decision is carried out.

  Explanation: In this scenario, the lord acts as the justicer because he is the one making judicial decisions and enforcing justice among the people under his authority, resolving a legal conflict.

• Royal Appointee:

  During a period of early English law, a royal justicer might have been dispatched by the monarch to travel through various counties, presiding over serious criminal trials and ensuring that the King's laws were upheld throughout the realm. This official would hear cases of theft, assault, or treason and pronounce sentences.

  Explanation: This royal official embodies the justicer by directly administering the law and delivering judgments on behalf of the sovereign power, bringing royal justice to different regions.

• Historical Literary Character:

  In a historical novel set in 17th-century England, a character might be introduced as the "Chief Justicer of the Assizes," whose primary duty is to oversee the circuit courts, ensuring fair legal proceedings and applying the law consistently across different towns and villages.

  Explanation: The character's title and role clearly define them as a justicer, as they are central to the administration of justice within the legal system depicted in the story, holding a significant judicial position.