Law Enforcement in Norman and Medieval England

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the evolution of law enforcement in Norman and medieval England.

What was a key change in law enforcement introduced by William I after 1066?

The introduction of the role of sheriff and the posse.

What are tithings in the context of medieval law enforcement?

A group of ten male adults responsible for ensuring that one another follows the law.

What does 'hue and cry' refer to in medieval law enforcement?

A method of raising the alarm to the rest of the village after a crime had been committed.

What was trial by ordeal?

A method where if a local jury could not decide on the outcome of a crime, villagers would turn to God for judgment.

What role did the posse play in law enforcement?

A group of men summoned by a sheriff to assist in preserving public peace and to hunt down criminals.

What was the significance of the feudal system in Norman England?

It structured society into different groups based on their roles, with the king holding the most power.

What were manor courts?

Courts that met to discuss and punish crimes on the land of the lord of the manor.

Who were Justices of the Peace (JPs)?

Appointed knights responsible for maintaining the King's Peace and participating in manor courts.

What were the responsibilities of a coroner introduced by Richard I?

To investigate unnatural deaths without an obvious natural cause.

What was a unique feature of Church courts compared to other courts?

Church courts were more lenient and did not use capital punishment.

What was trial by combat?

A trial method where the accuser and accused fought until one was defeated to determine guilt.

Who appointed parish constables and when were they introduced?

Introduced in 1285 by Edward I, parish constables were volunteers responsible for keeping the peace.