Legal Definitions - Lord High Steward

Definition: The Lord High Steward was a historical position in the House of Lords who acted as the speaker and presiding officer during a criminal trial of a peer for a felony or treason. However, this privilege of peerage in criminal proceedings was abolished in 1948.

Example: During the medieval times, the Lord High Steward was responsible for ensuring that the trial of a peer was conducted fairly and justly. They would oversee the proceedings and make sure that the accused had a fair chance to defend themselves.

Explanation: The example illustrates how the Lord High Steward was an important figure in the judicial system of the past. They were responsible for upholding the law and ensuring that justice was served. The position was abolished in 1948, but it remains an important part of legal history.