John Blake Powell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Blake Powell
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| Judge of the High Court of the Irish Free State | |
| In office 1922 – 13 September 1923 |
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| Judge of the High Court of Justice in Ireland | |
| In office 1918–1922 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | 1870 Ireland |
| Died | 13 September 1923 (aged 52–53) |
| Occupation | Solicitor, barrister |
John Blake Powell (1870 – 13 September 1923) was an important Irish solicitor, barrister, and judge. He played a key role in the legal system during a time of big changes in Ireland.
Early Life and Family
John Blake Powell was born in Ireland in 1870. He was the oldest son of John Powell, who lived at Ballytivan House in Sligo. In 1889, he married Catherine O'Sullivan Morris.
Legal Career
John Blake Powell first became a solicitor. A solicitor is a lawyer who gives legal advice and prepares legal documents. Later, in 1894, he became a barrister. Barristers are lawyers who represent people in court. This step is called being "called to the Bar."
From 1904 to 1914, he worked as a Senior Crown Prosecutor for County Leitrim. This meant he was a lead lawyer for the government in that area. He then held the same job in County Sligo from 1914 to 1918.
In 1905, he "took silk." This is a special honor for barristers, meaning they become a King's Counsel (KC). It shows they are very experienced and respected. In 1909, he was chosen as a "bencher," which is a senior member of a group that governs barristers.
He was also a delegate, or representative, at the Irish Convention between 1917 and 1918. This was a meeting to discuss the future of Ireland. Briefly in 1918, he served as the Solicitor-General for Ireland. This is a senior legal role, advising the government.
Becoming a Judge
In 1918, John Blake Powell became a judge in the High Court of Justice in Ireland. He worked in the Chancery Division, which handles cases about property, trusts, and business agreements.
He continued in this important role when the legal system changed. He served as a judge in the High Court of the Irish Free State until he passed away in 1923. The Irish Free State was the new independent state formed in 1922.
Special Recognition
In 1920, John Blake Powell was given a special honor. He was appointed to the Privy Council of Ireland. This allowed him to use the title "The Right Honourable." This title is given to people who hold high office or have served the country in important ways.
