John Skynner facts for kids

Sir John Skynner (born 1724, died 1805) was an important English judge and politician. He was a member of the House of Commons (which is like a part of the UK Parliament today) for several years. He had a long and successful career helping to make and interpret laws in England.

Early Life and Education

John Skynner was born in London in 1724. His family came from a place called Great Milton in Oxfordshire. He went to some very good schools, including Westminster School and Christ Church, Oxford University.

After his schooling, he decided to study law. He joined a famous legal society called Lincoln's Inn in 1739. By 1748, he had finished his studies and became a lawyer, which meant he could argue cases in court.

A Career in Law and Politics

Sir John Skynner quickly became a respected figure in the legal world. From 1770 to 1777, he worked as the chief lawyer for the Duchy of Lancaster, which is a special part of the King's property.

In 1771, he was given the special title of King's Counsel, often shortened to K.C. This meant he was a very senior and experienced lawyer. That same year, he also became a "bencher" at Lincoln's Inn, which is a senior position within the legal society.

He held several important judicial roles:

• He was a judge for the town of Woodstock from 1771 to 1780.
• He also served as a judge in Chester from 1772 to 1777.
• Later, he became a judge for the city of Oxford from 1776 to 1797.

Member of Parliament and Chief Judge

While working as a lawyer and judge, Sir John Skynner also became involved in politics. He was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the area of New Woodstock. He served in the House of Commons from 1771 to 1777.

In 1777, he left his role as an MP to take on an even bigger job. He was made a "serjeant-at-law" on November 27, 1777. Just a few days later, on December 1, he was appointed the Chief Baron of the Exchequer. This was a very important position, making him the head judge of one of England's main courts. He held this high office until 1787.

For his important contributions, he was knighted on November 23, 1777, which meant he could use the title "Sir." After he retired from his chief judge role, he was made a Privy Counsellor. This is a special group of advisors to the King or Queen.

Later Life and Family

In 1786, Sir John Skynner retired from his busy career. He moved to a large house in Great Milton, which he had inherited from his mother.

He passed away in 1805 in Bath and was buried in the church at Great Milton. He was married to Martha, the daughter of Edward Burn. They had a daughter named Frederica. Frederica later married Richard Ryder, who became a very important politician himself, serving as the Home Secretary.