Legal Definitions - consistorial court

A consistorial court, also known as a consistory court, is a type of diocesan court in England that has jurisdiction over the clergy and church property. This court deals with ecclesiastical matters such as cemetery management and other church-related issues.

The consistory court is presided over by the bishop's chancellor or the chancellor's commissary. It is responsible for making decisions and resolving disputes related to the church and its property.

When a dispute arises between two members of the clergy over the use of a church property, the matter may be brought before the consistory court for resolution. The court will hear both sides of the argument and make a decision based on the evidence presented.

Another example is when a cemetery is managed by the church, and there is a disagreement over the burial of a deceased person. The consistory court may be called upon to make a ruling on the matter.

These examples illustrate how the consistory court is an important institution in the Church of England, responsible for resolving disputes and making decisions related to church property and other ecclesiastical matters.