Legal Definitions - Court of Quarter Sessions of the Peace

Definition: The Court of Quarter Sessions of the Peace is a type of court that was used in England and Wales to deal with criminal cases. It was responsible for hearing cases that were not serious enough to be heard in the higher courts, such as cases of theft, assault, and minor offenses. The court was presided over by justices of the peace, who were local officials appointed to keep the peace in their area.

Example: A man is brought before the Court of Quarter Sessions of the Peace for stealing a loaf of bread from a local bakery. The justices of the peace hear the case and decide on a punishment, such as a fine or imprisonment.

Explanation: This example illustrates how the Court of Quarter Sessions of the Peace was used to deal with minor criminal cases, such as theft. The court was presided over by justices of the peace, who were appointed to keep the peace in their area and ensure that justice was served.