Sir James Foulis, 2nd Baronet facts for kids
Sir James Foulis, Lord Colinton (died 1688), was an important Scottish politician and judge. He played a role in Scottish government during a time of big changes, including the period when the king returned to power.
About Sir James Foulis
James Foulis was the only son of Alexander Foulis. His father was given the special title of a baronet in 1634. James himself was knighted by King Charles I in 1641. This meant he was given the title "Sir."
He represented the city of Edinburgh in the Scottish parliament from 1645 to 1648 and again in 1651. He also helped make sure laws were followed, serving as a commissioner in 1644. He was part of a special group called the committee of estates from 1646 to 1647, which helped govern Scotland.
Supporting the King
Sir James Foulis was a strong supporter of the king, known as a Cavalier. During a time of conflict, he was captured in 1651 by soldiers loyal to George Monck. He was held prisoner because of his support for the king.
After the king was restored to power in 1660 (a time known as the Restoration), Sir James Foulis became a judge. He was made an "ordinary lord of session" in 1661. This was a high position in the Scottish legal system. He also became a commissioner of excise, helping to collect taxes.
From 1661 to 1681, he represented Edinburghshire in parliament. He was also a "lord of the articles" in every parliament after the Restoration. This meant he was part of a group that prepared laws before they were debated by the full parliament.
His Work as a Judge
In 1671, when the High Court of Justiciary was created, Sir James Foulis became a lord commissioner. This made him one of the main judges in Scotland's highest criminal court. He took his place in parliament and swore his oaths in 1672, receiving the title Lord Colinton.
He joined the Privy Council of Scotland in 1674. This was a group of trusted advisors to the king. In 1678, he also helped with the "plantation of kirks," which involved organizing churches.
In 1681, during the trial of Archibald Campbell, 9th Earl of Argyll, Sir James Foulis showed his independent spirit. Even though he was a loyal supporter of the king, he voted against the charges being strong enough to go to trial. His vote was important, and the decision only passed because another judge, Lord Nairne, cast the deciding vote.
On 22 February 1684, Sir James Foulis was given an even higher judicial role. He became the lord justice clerk, which is a very senior judge in Scotland. He held this important position until he died in Edinburgh on 19 January 1688.
Family Life
Sir James Foulis was married twice. His second wife was Dame Margaret Erskine.
He had a son, also named James, who later inherited his father's special title. This son also became a member of parliament. Sir James Foulis also had a daughter who married James Livingstone.
