John Forster (Chief Justice) facts for kids

John Forster (1668 – 2 July 1720) was an Irish lawyer, politician, and judge. He held many important positions in the legal system of Ireland during his lifetime.

Early Life and Family Background

John Forster was born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1668. He was one of four children born to Richard Forster and his wife, Anne Webber. His father, Richard, was also involved in politics and served in the Irish House of Commons for the area of Swords. The Forster family had a long history of involvement in business in Dublin. John's brother, Nicholas Forster, became a Bishop of Raphoe, which is a high-ranking position in the church.

A Career in Law and Politics

John Forster had a very active career in both law and politics.

Legal Roles

From 1701 to 1714, he served as the Recorder of Dublin. This was an important legal role, where he acted as the main legal advisor to the city of Dublin. Later, he held even higher legal positions. In 1709, he became the Solicitor-General for Ireland, and then from late 1709 to 1711, he was the Attorney-General for Ireland. These roles meant he was one of the top lawyers working for the government.

Becoming a Judge

On 20 September 1714, John Forster was appointed to a very senior position: Chief Justice of the Irish Common Pleas. This made him one of the most important judges in Ireland.

Political Life

Besides his legal work, Forster was also a politician. He represented Dublin City in the Irish House of Commons from 1703 to 1715. This meant he was a representative for the people of Dublin in the Irish Parliament.

In 1713, he was involved in a very competitive election, known as the Irish General Election. His constituency in Dublin was the site of a disturbance called the Dublin election riot.

Challenges and Reputation

People at the time described Forster as a "sound lawyer and impressive speaker." This means he was good at understanding the law and speaking clearly in court. However, some also felt he "lacked political judgment," meaning he sometimes struggled with making wise political decisions. He was also known for being stubborn and hot-tempered.

During his time as Recorder of Dublin, John Forster was part of a big disagreement between the city leaders (called aldermen) and a powerful government group known as the Privy Council. Forster strongly supported the aldermen. Because of this, he was criticized by famous writers like Jonathan Swift. These criticisms were difficult for him. It is thought that he decided to become a Chief Justice because he believed this senior judge role would be less stressful than being the Recorder of Dublin.

Forster's Family Life

John Forster was married twice and had several children.

First Marriage

His first marriage was to Rebecca Monck. She was the daughter of Henry Monck from Dublin. John and Rebecca had at least three children together: Richard, Anne, and Elizabeth.

Second Marriage

Later, he married Dorothy Evans. Dorothy was the sister of George Evans, 1st Baron Carbery, who was a well-known figure. John and Dorothy had one daughter, also named Dorothy.

Children's Lives

• His son, Richard, married Elizabeth Geering in 1721. Richard passed away in 1738.
• His daughter, Anne, married the famous philosopher George Berkeley, who later became the Bishop of Cloyne.
• His other daughter, Elizabeth, married Reverend Robert Spence.
• His youngest child, Dorothy, married Thomas Burton. Their grandchildren included another important judge, Thomas Burton Vandeleur.

John Forster passed away at his home in Clonshagh, Santry, after suffering a stroke on 2 July 1720.