Legal Definitions - servitor of bills

A servitor of bills was a historical legal official, specifically a messenger who worked for the Marshal of the King's Bench court in England. Their primary duty was to deliver official summonses or legal notices, compelling individuals to appear in court. This role was also sometimes referred to as a tip-stave.

Here are some examples illustrating the role of a servitor of bills:

• A Merchant's Debt: Imagine a London merchant in the 17th century, Master Thomas, who has failed to repay a significant loan. The lender, seeking justice, brings a case before the King's Bench. A servitor of bills would be dispatched to Master Thomas's shop or home, carrying an official summons. This summons would formally notify Master Thomas of the lawsuit and command him to appear before the court on a specific date to answer the allegations of debt.

  Explanation: This example illustrates the servitor's role in initiating legal proceedings by delivering the official document that compelled a defendant (Master Thomas) to attend court to face a civil claim.

• A Land Dispute: Consider a dispute between two landed gentry, Sir John and Lord Edward, over the rightful ownership of a valuable parcel of farmland. Sir John initiates a lawsuit in the King's Bench to resolve the matter. A servitor of bills would travel to Lord Edward's estate, presenting him with the court's writ. This document would inform Lord Edward of the legal action against him and require his presence in court to defend his claim to the land.

  Explanation: Here, the servitor acts as the essential link between the court and a party involved in a property dispute, ensuring the defendant is officially notified and summoned to participate in the legal process.

• A Witness Summons: During a high-profile criminal trial in the 18th century, the prosecution identifies a crucial witness, a local innkeeper named Mrs. Davies, whose testimony is vital. To ensure her appearance, a servitor of bills would be sent to Mrs. Davies's establishment. The servitor would deliver a formal summons, ordering her to attend the King's Bench on a specific day to provide her testimony under oath.

  Explanation: This scenario demonstrates the servitor's function in compelling individuals, even those not directly accused, to appear before the court when their presence (e.g., as a witness) is deemed necessary for the administration of justice.