Alexander Thomson (Baron of the Exchequer) facts for kids
Sir Alexander Thomson (born around 1744 – died April 15, 1817) was an important English lawyer and judge. He held a very high position as the Chief Baron of the Exchequer from 1814 until he passed away three years later.
About His Life
We don't know much about Sir Alexander Thomson's parents. He was born and went to school in a town called Wolverhampton in England.
Becoming a Lawyer
In 1764, he joined Lincoln's Inn, which is one of the professional associations for barristers in London. He became a qualified lawyer, known as being "called to the Bar," in 1769. He mostly worked on cases related to fairness and property law.
He caught the attention of John Russell, 4th Duke of Bedford, a powerful noble. The Duke hired Thomson to manage and check the financial records of his large estates.
Rise to Judge
Sir Alexander Thomson became good friends with Lord Chancellor Thurlow, who was a very important legal official. Because of this friendship, Thomson was given several important jobs:
- In 1782, he became a Master in Chancery, helping the court with legal matters.
- In 1786, he was made Accountant-General, managing money for the court.
- In 1787, he became a Baron of the Exchequer, which is a type of judge.
- In the same year, he was also made a serjeant, a senior type of barrister, and was knighted, becoming "Sir" Alexander Thomson.
He was also elected a Bencher of Lincoln's Inn in 1782, which is a senior member who helps govern the institution. In 1786, he was chosen as a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS), a group for top scientists and thinkers.
Chief Baron
In 1814, Sir Alexander Thomson took over from Sir Vicary Gibbs as the Chief Baron of the Exchequer. This was the head judge of one of England's main courts. He also joined the Privy Council, a group of advisors to the King.
He passed away in 1817. He was not married, and his sister, who was supposed to inherit his property, had died before him.
