The correct spelling of the legal title "Master of the Rolls" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The word "Master" is pronounced /ˈmæstər/ with the stress on the first syllable. Whereas, "Rolls" is pronounced /roʊlz/ with a long 'o' sound and a silent 's' at the end. The title refers to the head of the civil judiciary in England and Wales, with a role in the courts and legal system. The correct spelling is important to ensure clarity in legal documents and proceedings.
The term "Master of the Rolls" refers to a senior judicial position in the legal system of England and Wales. The Master of the Rolls is one of the highest-ranking judges, typically regarded as the second-most senior judge in the Court of Appeal following the Lord Chief Justice.
The Master of the Rolls is responsible for overseeing the administration of justice and plays a vital role in the judiciary. They hold numerous responsibilities, including hearing appeals in civil cases, supervising the Court of Appeal's work concerning non-criminal matters, and assisting in the development of legal principles and procedures. Additionally, they take part in judicial appointments and contribute to the formulation and amendment of civil rules and procedures.
Traditionally, the Master of the Rolls was responsible for maintaining the records of the Court of Chancery, hence the title "rolls." However, the position has evolved significantly over time, and its current scope extends beyond record-keeping duties.
The Master of the Rolls is appointed by the Monarch on the advice of the Lord Chancellor, after receiving input from the judiciary. The individual appointed must possess extensive legal experience and hold high moral character. Throughout their tenure, they are expected to exhibit independence, impartiality, and leadership qualities while contributing to the efficient and fair operation of the legal system.
In summary, the Master of the Rolls is a prestigious role within the English and Welsh judiciary, overseeing the Court of Appeal's work on civil cases and providing guidance on legal matters.
• The head or chief master in Chancery; to be master of one's self, to have entire self-control; not to be governed by passion. Note.-Master, as a prefix, is placed before the Christian name and surname of a man, and is then contracted into Mr, and pronounced, used as a title of courtesy and respect, but inferior to that of esquire, as Mr William Thompson; master, written in full, and pronounced, is placed before the names of boys and youths of the better classes as a mark of respect, as Master Robert Lowe.
• A high officer of the Court of Chancery, ranking immediately after the chief justice of the Queen's Bench, who is intrusted with the custody of the public records, of the records of the law courts, and those of the Court of Exchequer; rolls of court or of parliament, &c., the parchments, &c., on which the acts and proceedings are engrossed; to call the roll, to recite a list or register of the names of persons, as of a schoo;, college, or of any organised body of pesons, to ascertain their presence or absence.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.