Legal Definitions - Keeper of the Hanaper

The Keeper of the Hanaper was the person in charge of the receiving and accounting department in Chancery during historical times. This office was responsible for collecting fees on charters and letters granted under the Great Seal, as well as fines for Chancery writs. They also paid Chancery staff wages, purchased office supplies, and accounted for the Chancery's revenues and expenses.

For example, if someone wanted to obtain a charter or letter from the Great Seal, they would have to pay a fee to the hanaper office. The Keeper of the Hanaper would then be responsible for collecting and recording that fee, as well as using it to pay for Chancery expenses.

Another example would be if someone was fined for a Chancery writ. The hanaper office would collect that fine and record it, and the Keeper of the Hanaper would ensure that the money was used appropriately.

Overall, the Keeper of the Hanaper played an important role in managing the financial affairs of the Chancery during historical times.