John FitzGerald, Baron FitzGerald facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Lord FitzGerald
PC, PC (Ire)
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| Lord of Appeal in Ordinary | |
| In office 1882–1889 |
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John David FitzGerald
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John David FitzGerald, also known as Baron FitzGerald, was an important Irish judge and politician. He was born on May 1, 1816, and passed away on October 16, 1889. He was a member of the Liberal Party in the United Kingdom.
Contents
Early Life and Education
John David FitzGerald was born in Dublin, Ireland. His father, David FitzGerald, was a merchant. His mother was Catherine Leahy. John had two sisters, Kate and Emily. He received his education privately. In 1838, he became a lawyer at King's Inns. Later, in 1870, the University of Dublin gave him an honorary degree. This degree was called a Doctor of Laws.
A Career in Law and Politics
John FitzGerald had a very successful career. In 1847, he became a Queen's Counsel. This meant he was a very senior lawyer. He also worked as a judge on the Munster circuit. This was a specific legal area.
Joining Parliament
In 1852, FitzGerald became a member of the House of Commons. This is part of the UK Parliament. He represented the area of Ennis for eight years.
Important Legal Roles
In 1855, FitzGerald was chosen as a bencher. This is a senior position in a legal society. He was then named Solicitor-General for Ireland. This was a top legal job for the Irish government. A year later, he became the Attorney-General for Ireland. This was an even higher legal role. When he took this job, he joined the Privy Council of Ireland. This was a group of important advisors to the monarch.
He held the Attorney-General role until 1858. After a short break, he took the job again until 1860. In 1860, he became a Judge on the Court of Queen's Bench (Ireland). This was a major court in Ireland.
Becoming a Lord
On June 23, 1882, John FitzGerald received a special honor. He was made a Lord of Appeal in Ordinary. This meant he became a judge in the highest court in the United Kingdom. He was given the title of Baron FitzGerald, of Kilmarnock. This was a life peerage, meaning he would be a baron for his lifetime. Six days later, he also joined the Privy Council of the United Kingdom. This was another group of important advisors, but for the whole UK.
Family Life
John FitzGerald was married twice. In 1846, he married Rose Donohoe. They had three sons together. Sadly, Rose passed away in 1850.
FitzGerald then married Hon. Jane Matilda Mary Southwell. She was the daughter of Lieutenant-Colonel Arthur Francis Southwell. With Jane, he had four sons and six daughters.
A famous person today, Amber Rudd, is his great-great-granddaughter. She is a former politician from the Conservative Party.
