Legal Definitions - beadle

Definition: A beadle (beed-uhl) is a historical court crier or minor parish officer who serves the vestry's needs in various ways, including giving notice of the vestry's meetings, executing its orders, and attending its inquests. They can also be a macebearer at Oxford University or Cambridge University.

• A beadle in the past would announce the start of court proceedings and maintain order in the courtroom, similar to a constable.
• In the church, a beadle would assist the vestry by carrying out their orders and attending their inquests.
• At Oxford University or Cambridge University, a beadle would carry a mace during academic ceremonies.

These examples illustrate the different roles and responsibilities of a beadle throughout history, from maintaining order in court to assisting the church and carrying out ceremonial duties at universities.