The word "assizes" is spelled with three syllables: /əˈsaɪzɪz/. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, while the second syllable is stressed and contains the sound of the vowel "I." The final syllable contains a voiced "z" sound followed by a voiceless "s" sound, indicating that it is plural. The word "assizes" refers to a court session that is held periodically to hear criminal and civil cases. The spelling and pronunciation of this word may vary depending on the region and dialect in which it is used.
Assizes is a term that refers to a form of court proceedings or sessions that were conducted in England and Wales. Historically, assizes were periodic courts that were held in different counties throughout the region. The word "assizes" is derived from the Latin term "assidere," meaning "to sit beside." The name reflects the fact that judges would sit beside each other during the proceedings.
Assizes were primarily concerned with criminal cases, particularly those involving serious offenses such as murder or treason. They were presided over by two judges, who would travel from county to county to administer justice. The sessions would typically last for a few weeks, during which time numerous cases would be heard.
In addition to criminal matters, assizes also dealt with civil cases, such as disputes relating to land or property. The courts had the authority to determine guilt or innocence, and if necessary, impose punishments or award compensations.
The assizes system was abolished in England and Wales in 1971, with the introduction of a more modernized court structure. However, the term "assizes" is still used in contemporary legal contexts in certain jurisdictions, such as Ireland.
Overall, assizes were formal courts where judges presided over criminal and civil cases, hearing evidence, making determinations, and administering justice under the law.
A court of justice in England held twice a-year in every county; sing., a statute regulating the measure and price of commodities.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "assizes" has its origins in medieval England. It comes from the Old French word "assises", which means "sessions" or "sittings". The Old French term was derived from the Latin word "assidere", which means "to sit beside" or "to be present". In medieval times, "assizes" referred to the periodic sessions or sittings held by royal judges in specific regions of England. These sessions were responsible for a wide range of legal matters, including civil and criminal cases, as well as the administration of justice. Over time, "assizes" became specifically associated with the court sessions held to try various criminal cases and establish guilt or innocence. The term is still used today in some legal systems, although its usage has become less common compared to earlier centuries.