James William Colvile facts for kids

Sir James William Colvile (born January 12, 1810 – died December 6, 1880) was an important British lawyer and judge. He worked as a civil servant and judge in India. Later, he became a judge on the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council. This court was the highest court for many British colonies around the world.

Sir James Colvile's Early Life and Education

James William Colvile was the oldest son of Andrew Wedderburn Colvile. His family lived in Ochiltree and Crombie, Fife. He went to Eton College, a famous school. After that, he studied at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he earned his master's degree in 1834.

Becoming a Lawyer

After college, James Colvile decided to become a barrister. A barrister is a type of lawyer who argues cases in higher courts. He finished his training in 1835. For ten years, he worked as a lawyer at Lincoln's Inn in London.

Working in India as a Judge

In 1845, Sir James Colvile moved to Calcutta, India. He was appointed as the Advocate General for the East India Company. This meant he was the chief legal advisor for the company in India.

Rising Through the Ranks

He became a judge on the Supreme Court of Bengal in 1848. That same year, he was given the title of "Sir" (knighted). In 1855, he was promoted to Chief Justice of Bengal. This made him the most important judge in that region.

Leading the University of Calcutta

Sir James Colvile also played a big role in education. He was the very first vice-chancellor of the University of Calcutta. This is like being the head or president of a university. He held this important position for two years, from 1857 to 1859. He was also the president of The Asiatic Society, a group that studied Asian history and culture.

Return to England and High Court Work

Sir James Colvile retired from his work in India in 1859 and moved back to England. He was then made a Privy Councillor. This meant he became an advisor to the British monarch.

Serving on the Judicial Committee

He joined the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council. This committee was the highest court for appeals from British colonies. It made final decisions on important legal cases. Sir James Colvile helped decide two major cases from Canada. These cases were about which government, federal or local, had power over railways.

Joining the Royal Society

In April 1875, he was chosen as a fellow of the Royal Society. This is a special honor given to people who have made important discoveries in science.

Sir James Colvile passed away in London on December 6, 1880, due to heart failure.

Sir James Colvile's Family Life

In 1857, Sir James Colvile married Frances Elinor Grant. Her father was Sir John Peter Grant, who was also an important figure in India. Sir James and Frances had one son named Andrew John Wedderburn. Sadly, their son passed away in 1876 when he was only 17 years old.