Legal Definitions - grand assize

Definition: A panel of jurors summoned by judicial writ to resolve disputes concerning real property. It was instituted by Henry II in the 12th century as an alternative to trial by battle. The Grand Assize is used to determine questions of ownership.

Example: If two people are fighting over who owns a piece of land, they can use the Grand Assize to settle the dispute. A panel of jurors will be summoned to determine who has the rightful ownership of the land.

Explanation: The Grand Assize was a way to settle disputes over land ownership without resorting to violence. It was an alternative to trial by battle, which was a common way to settle disputes in medieval times. The Grand Assize allowed for a fair and impartial decision to be made by a panel of jurors. It was an important development in the history of English law and helped to establish the rule of law in England.