John Bacon (judge) facts for kids

John Bacon (died 1321) was an English judge who lived a long time ago. He played an important role in the legal system during the time of kings and queens in England.

Bacon first appears in records around 1278. He worked as a lawyer, or "attorney," for Queen Eleanor, who was the queen at the time. This shows he was trusted by important people.

John Bacon's Early Career

Around 1288, John Bacon held several important jobs for the King. He was known as the 'King's clerk.' This meant he helped with royal paperwork and official duties. He also managed important records and documents for the King's treasury.

Keeping Court Records

One of Bacon's main jobs was to keep track of court cases. He worked for a court called the "Common Pleas." This court handled many legal disagreements between ordinary people. Bacon made sure all the details of these cases were written down correctly. He also recorded special legal agreements about land. These records were then sent to the King's treasury. Bacon held this important role until about 1309.

Leeds Castle Keeper

In 1291, John Bacon was given a special responsibility. He was put in charge of Leeds Castle in Kent. This castle was a royal residence, meaning the King and his family sometimes stayed there. Being in charge of a royal castle was a very important and trusted position.

Bacon Becomes a Judge

In 1313, John Bacon's career advanced significantly. He was appointed as a judge in the Common Pleas court. This was a major step up from his previous roles. In the same year, the King asked him to stay in London to give advice on important matters. This shows how much the King valued his legal knowledge.

Special Legal Duties

In 1314, Bacon was given another important task. He became a "commissioner of oyer and terminer" for the counties of Norfolk and Suffolk. This meant he was part of a special group of judges. Their job was to investigate and decide cases where people were accused of misusing their official positions.

In 1315, the chief judge of the Common Pleas, William de Beresford, had to leave suddenly. This meant John Bacon and another judge, Thrikingham, were left to handle all the court's business.

Later Years and Legacy

In 1317, John Bacon was called to attend a special meeting of Parliament in Lincoln. However, the meeting had to be postponed because of an invasion by the Scots.

In 1320, Bacon was part of a group investigating people who were making fake money. This was a serious crime at the time. The next year, in 1321, he was on another commission. This group looked into complaints about sheriffs and other legal officials who might have abused their power.

John Bacon likely passed away in 1321. Another judge, Stonore, took his place in the Common Pleas court. Bacon owned land in several places in Suffolk, Essex, and Norfolk. These included Reston, Hemingston, Cleydon, Akenham, and Shouldham.