Assise of the Forest refers to a legal term that originated in medieval England during the Norman period. It was a set of regulations or laws that governed the management and preservation of the royal forests, which were extensive woodlands and hunting grounds owned by the monarch.
The Assise of the Forests was established to control and protect the forests, ensuring that they were managed sustainably and utilized for the benefit of the crown. It encompassed a range of rules and directives that covered various aspects of forest management, including hunting, poaching, timber harvesting, grazing, and trespassing.
These regulations aimed to preserve the royal hunting rights, secure a constant supply of game animals, and protect the timber resources necessary for construction and shipbuilding. The Assise outlined the legal procedures for punishing offenders who violated the forest laws, which typically involved strict penalties, including fines, imprisonment, or in severe cases, mutilation or death.
The Assise of the Forest continued to evolve over time with the changing needs and demands of the monarchy. During the 13th century, it was further refined and consolidated under the Forest Charter, which granted certain rights and liberties to the local communities living within or near the royal forests.
Today, the Assise of the Forest represents an important historical document that provides insights into medieval forest management practices and the legal framework surrounding forest administration in medieval England.
