Thomas Lawton facts for kids

Thomas Lawton (born around 1558 – died 1606) was an English barrister (a type of lawyer) and judge. He also served as a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of the government, for a short time in 1584 and again from 1604 to 1606.

Who Was Thomas Lawton?

Thomas Lawton was born around the year 1558. He was the third son of John Lawton and Margaret Dutton. His family came from a place called Church Lawton. His mother, Margaret, was the daughter of Fulke Dutton from Chester.

Early Life and Education

Thomas Lawton began his education in 1575 at St Alban Hall, Oxford, which is part of the famous University of Oxford. The next year, in 1576, he joined the Inner Temple. This was one of the special schools in London where people learned to become lawyers.

Becoming a Lawyer

After his studies, Thomas Lawton officially became a barrister in 1584. This means he was allowed to argue cases in court.

Lawton's Political Career

In the same year he became a lawyer, 1584, Thomas Lawton was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP). This means he represented the people of a town called Callington in the House of Commons. Callington was a new area that had just been given the right to elect an MP.

Life as a Lawyer and Judge

Thomas Lawton worked as a lawyer in London for many years. He became a very important member of the Inner Temple, known as a Bencher, in 1597. In 1600, he was chosen to be an Autumn Reader, which meant he gave important lectures to other lawyers.

By 1602, he was working as a recorder for the city of Chester. A recorder was a judge who also helped manage the legal system in a city.

Return to Parliament

In 1604, Thomas Lawton was again elected as a Member of Parliament. This time, he represented the City of Chester. He served in this role until his death.

Later Life and Legacy

Thomas Lawton passed away in 1606. He died without leaving a will, which means he died intestate.