Legal Definitions - secta regalis

Secta Regalis

This historical legal term refers to a mandatory duty in medieval England for certain individuals to attend the local sheriff's court twice annually. This obligation was known as "the king's suit" because these local courts performed functions and exercised authority similar to those of the king's own royal courts, ensuring a consistent application of justice and administration throughout the realm.

• Example 1: A Free Tenant's Duty

  Imagine a farmer named Thomas living in a small village in 13th-century England. As a free tenant, Thomas was required by secta regalis to appear at the bi-annual gathering of the sheriff's court, often called the sheriff's tourn. This wasn't just about witnessing proceedings; it was about participating in the local governance, potentially serving on a jury, or presenting local grievances, all under the authority delegated from the Crown.

  This example illustrates the obligation to attend the sheriff's court and highlights its functions mirroring the king's court in local administration and justice.

• Example 2: A Landholder's Affirmation

  Lady Eleanor, who held a manor directly from the Crown, also had the secta regalis obligation. While she might send a representative in some cases, her primary duty was to ensure her presence or that of her designated agent at the sheriff's tourn. This attendance affirmed her loyalty and participation in the king's judicial system, even for matters concerning her tenants or local disputes that fell under the sheriff's jurisdiction.

  This demonstrates how the obligation applied to different social strata, including landholders, and reinforced the idea of the sheriff's court acting on behalf of the king to maintain order and justice.

• Example 3: Enforcement and Local Governance

  In a particular shire, the sheriff would hold his court in spring and autumn. If a free man, like a miller named John, failed to attend without a valid excuse, he could face a fine or other penalties. This enforcement mechanism highlighted the importance of secta regalis not just as a formality, but as a crucial element for the functioning of local justice and administration, ensuring that the king's peace and laws were upheld across the kingdom through these delegated courts.

  This example emphasizes the mandatory nature of the obligation and the vital purpose of the sheriff's court in upholding the king's authority and administering justice at the local level.