Richard Willoughby (judge) facts for kids

Richard Willoughby (died 1325), also known as Richard Bugge of Willoughby, was an important person in England. He owned land, worked as a lawyer, became a judge, and was even a member of Parliament for a short time.

Richard Willoughby was the son of Richard Bugge, who was also a successful lawyer from a place called Willoughby on the Wolds in Nottinghamshire. Young Richard learned about English law, known as common law, at special schools called Inns of Court. He decided to use the name "Willoughby" because his family owned land there.

Richard also had a brother named Ralph Bugge, who kept their father's family name.

Richard Willoughby's Career

Richard Willoughby became a very respected lawyer, known as a serjeant-at-law. This was a high rank for lawyers back then.

Member of Parliament

In 1318, Richard Willoughby was chosen to be one of the two members of the Parliament of England for the area of Nottinghamshire. Parliament is like a country's main law-making group, similar to today's government. Being a member meant he helped make important decisions for the country.

Becoming a Judge

Later, in 1323, Richard Willoughby was given a very important job. He was made the Chief Justice of the Common Pleas for Ireland. This meant he was the main judge for a major court in Ireland, dealing with common law cases. He held this important position until he passed away in 1325.

Family Life

Richard Willoughby had a son who also became very famous in the legal world. His son, named Richard de Willoughby (who lived from about 1290 to 1362), later became the Lord Chief Justice of England. This was the highest judge in England!