Legal Definitions - Keeper of the King's Conscience

Definition: The Keeper of the King's Conscience is another term for the Lord Chancellor, who is the highest judicial officer in England. The Lord Chancellor has several important roles, including:

• Sitting as speaker of the House of Lords
• Being a member of the Cabinet
• Presiding at appellate judicial proceedings

For example, if there is a legal dispute that has been appealed to a higher court, the Lord Chancellor would preside over the proceedings and make a final decision.

The term "Keeper of the King's Conscience" emphasizes the Lord Chancellor's responsibility to ensure that the monarch's decisions are just and fair. This role dates back to medieval times, when the Lord Chancellor was responsible for advising the king on matters of law and conscience.