John Jeffrey (judge) facts for kids
John Jeffrey (also known as John Jefferay) was an English politician and judge. He was born around 1524 and passed away on May 13, 1578. John Jeffrey came from Chiddingly, a village in Sussex, England.
He served as a Member (MP) in the Parliament of England. This means he was chosen to represent people from different areas. He was an MP for Clitheroe in 1563. Later, he represented East Grinstead in 1571. His last role as an MP was for Sussex in 1572.
Early Life and Education
John Jeffrey was the son of Richard Jeffrey. His family lived at Chiddingly Manor. His mother was Eliza, daughter of Robert Whitfield.
John Jeffrey studied law. In 1544, he joined Gray's Inn. This was a special place in London where lawyers were trained. He became a lawyer in 1546. This meant he was "called to the bar." He continued his legal studies there. In 1561, he became a "Lent reader." This was a senior teaching role at Gray's Inn.
Career as a Judge
John Jeffrey became a very important lawyer. In 1567, he was made a serjeant-at-law. This was a high rank for lawyers in England. They were the only lawyers who could argue cases in certain top courts.
Later, in 1572, he became a queen's serjeant. This meant he was a special lawyer for the Queen. He advised her on legal matters.
His career continued to rise. In 1576, he was appointed a judge. He worked in the Queen's Bench. This court handled major legal cases. In 1577, he received an even higher position. He became the Chief Baron of the Exchequer. This was a very important role. He was the head judge of the court that dealt with royal money and taxes.
Later Life and Family
John Jeffrey passed away in London in 1578. He was buried in Chiddingly Church. A grand tomb was built there for him.
John Jeffrey was married two times. His first wife was Alice Apsley. They had one daughter named Elizabeth. Elizabeth later married Edward Montagu. He became the first Baron Montagu of Boughton. John Jeffrey's second wife was Mary Goring.
