Legal Definitions - Grand Day

Definition: Grand Day is a term used in English law to refer to one of four holy days when the courts are not in session. Each of the four court terms had a Grand Day, which were Candlemas Day (February 2), Ascension Day (March 25), St. John the Baptist Day (June 24), and All Saints' Day (November 1). The Inns of Court and of Chancery would hold ceremonial events on these days.

Example: On Grand Day, the courts would not be in session, and the Inns of Court and of Chancery would hold ceremonial events to mark the occasion. The Benchers of the Inns of Court would host ceremonial dinners in their halls, which were attended by lawyers and other legal professionals.

Explanation: The example illustrates how Grand Day was observed in English law. It shows that the courts were closed on these days, and that the Inns of Court and of Chancery held ceremonial events to mark the occasion. The example also shows that the Benchers of the Inns of Court would host ceremonial dinners, which were attended by lawyers and other legal professionals.