Henry Yelverton (attorney general) facts for kids
Sir Henry Yelverton (born June 29, 1566 – died January 24, 1630) was an important English lawyer, politician, and judge during the time of King James I. He was known for his legal skills and for sometimes disagreeing with the king and his powerful friends.
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Early Life and Education
Henry Yelverton was born on June 29, 1566. He was the oldest son of Sir Christopher Yelverton. His family home was likely in Easton-Mauduit, Northamptonshire. He became a lawyer, called a barrister, on April 25, 1593.
A Career in Politics and Law
Serving in Parliament
From 1597, Henry Yelverton was elected to Parliament for the town of Northampton several times. In 1604, he spoke up for a member named Sir Francis Goodwin. The king wanted Goodwin removed, but Yelverton argued that Goodwin should keep his seat. He even said that the king's command was like a "thunderbolt" or a "roaring lion."
Working with the King
Later, Yelverton faced some challenges. He criticized some plans to unite England and Scotland. He also upset the king's Scottish friend, George Home. Yelverton worked hard to get back into the king's good graces. He even sought help from influential people to speak to King James I.
In 1610, Yelverton made an interesting legal point. He said that English law only reached the low-water mark of the sea. This meant the king could control all goods coming by sea. He could charge a special fee for them to be brought ashore.
Becoming a Royal Legal Advisor
By 1613, Yelverton had gained the king's trust. He became the Solicitor-General for England and Wales on October 28, 1613. This was a very important legal job, helping the king with legal matters. Soon after, he was knighted on November 8.
In 1614, he was again a Member of Parliament for Northampton. He was involved in some important legal cases. He also supported the Chancery court in a legal disagreement with another important judge, Sir Edward Coke.
In 1617, King James I announced that Yelverton would become the Attorney-General. This was an even higher legal position. However, a powerful person at court, George Villiers (who later became the Duke of Buckingham), tried to stop him. Yelverton eventually got the job.
Challenges as Attorney-General
As Attorney-General, Yelverton faced difficulties, especially concerning "monopolies." A monopoly is when one company or person has complete control over a certain product or service. The king often granted these special rights.
In 1617, Yelverton was asked to take legal action against people who were breaking the rules of a monopoly for gold and silver thread. He was careful and wanted to consult the king before arresting anyone.
In 1619, some silk merchants refused to agree to stop making silk. Yelverton had some of them arrested. But he felt unsure about the responsibility. He wanted the Lord Keeper, Francis Bacon, to support his actions.
In 1620, Yelverton was accused of approving a special document for the city of London that had some unauthorized parts. He was suspended from his job on June 27. On October 27, he admitted his mistake. On November 10, he was sentenced to prison in the Tower of London and fined. He also lost his job as Attorney-General.
Yelverton felt that his troubles were partly due to his work on monopolies. In 1621, he was brought from the Tower to answer charges in the House of Lords. He openly accused Buckingham of using his influence against him.
Facing Penalties
On May 16, the Lords decided that Yelverton should go to prison. He also had to apologize to the king and Buckingham. He was ordered to pay a large sum of money to Buckingham and the king. However, Buckingham refused the money, and the king was satisfied with the apology. Yelverton was set free in July.
Later Life as a Judge
After these challenges, Yelverton's career took a positive turn. On May 10, 1625, soon after King Charles I became king, Yelverton was promoted. He became a judge in the Court of Common Pleas. This was a high court that dealt with common legal cases. He served in this role until his death on January 24, 1630. He was buried at his family home in Easton-Mauduit.
Personal Life
Henry Yelverton married Mary, the daughter of Robert Beale. Their son and heir, Christopher, was knighted in 1623. He later became a baronet in 1641 and passed away on December 4, 1654.
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