Legal Definitions - Chief Justice of England

Definition: The Chief Justice of England was the former title given to the Lord Chief Justice of England. This person was the highest-ranking judge in the country and was responsible for overseeing the administration of justice in England.

Example: Sir Edward Coke was appointed as the Chief Justice of England in 1606. He was known for his strong defense of the common law and his opposition to the king's attempts to expand his power.

Explanation: This example illustrates how the Chief Justice of England was a powerful figure in the legal system and had the ability to challenge the authority of the monarch. Sir Edward Coke's tenure as Chief Justice was marked by his efforts to protect the rights of English citizens and limit the power of the king.