Legal Definitions - Coram Rege Court

The Coram Rege Court, also known as the King's Bench, was historically the highest common-law court in England. It was presided over by the reigning monarch, and when a queen began to reign, the name automatically changed to Queen's Bench. In 1873, during Queen Victoria's reign, the court's jurisdiction was transferred to the Queen's Bench Division of the High Court of Justice.

The court of King's Bench had jurisdiction over all criminal causes, from high treason down to the most trivial misdemeanor or breach of the peace. It was considered the highest court of ordinary justice in criminal cases within the realm, and was paramount to the authority of justices of gaol delivery and commissions of oyer and terminer.

For example, if someone was accused of high treason, their case would be heard in the Coram Rege Court. Similarly, if someone was charged with a minor offense like a breach of the peace, their case would also be heard in this court.