Legal Definitions - peers of fees

Definition: Peers of fees were vassals or tenants of the same lord who were responsible for settling disputes that arose from fees.

Example: In medieval England, a lord might grant a fee to a vassal or tenant in exchange for their loyalty and military service. If a dispute arose between two vassals or tenants over their fees, the lord would appoint a group of peers of fees to settle the matter.

Explanation: The example illustrates how peers of fees were responsible for resolving disputes related to fees. In this case, the vassals or tenants were granted fees by the lord, and if they had a disagreement, the peers of fees would be called upon to make a decision. This system helped to maintain order and resolve conflicts within the feudal system.