MAIDEN ASSIZE Meaning and
Definition
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Maiden Assize refers to a legal term in the field of criminal law, particularly in medieval England, denoting the initial or first trial of the highest criminal court. The term "assize" originates from the Old French word "assise," meaning "a sitting" or "session." The maiden assize represented the inaugural sitting of an assize court, also referred to as the King's Court, where a panel of judges presided over criminal cases.
During the maiden assize, newly appointed or elected judges would hear and rule on various high-profile criminal cases, including severe offenses such as murder, treason, and robbery. These cases held significant weight and importance due to their impact on societal order and the potential to set legal precedents. The maiden assize aimed to establish the legitimacy and authority of the newly formed court through this inaugural session.
Given the historical context, the term "maiden assize" reflects the early stages of the English judicial system's development, highlighting the birth of a specific court where important criminal trials were conducted. Over time, "assize" broadened to include other sessions held by judges in different regions, focusing not only on criminal matters but also on civil cases. Nonetheless, the maiden assize remains a term that signifies the inaugural sitting of a court specifically dedicated to the adjudication of serious criminal offenses.
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An assize at which there is no criminal to try.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MAIDEN ASSIZE
- naiden assize
- kaiden assize
- jaiden assize
- mziden assize
- msiden assize
- mwiden assize
- mqiden assize
- mauden assize
- majden assize
- makden assize
- maoden assize
- ma9den assize
- ma8den assize
- maisen assize
- maixen assize
- maicen assize
- maifen assize
- mairen assize
- maieen assize
- maidwn assize
Etymology of MAIDEN ASSIZE
The term "maiden assize" has its roots in medieval English legal terminology. The word "maiden" here is derived from Old English "gemǣd" meaning "assembly" or "meeting". It eventually evolved to refer to a legal proceeding or session held by a judge and jury.
The word "assize" is borrowed from Old French "assise", which means "session" or "sitting". In medieval England, assizes were periodic courts held by itinerant judges who traveled across the country to hear cases. The term "maiden assize" specifically referred to the inaugural session of a newly appointed judge. It was often seen as an important event in the legal system, marking the beginning of their tenure.
So, the combination of "maiden" and "assize" in "maiden assize" refers to the first session of a judge in their new position.
