Walter Clopton facts for kids

Sir Walter Clopton was an important English lawyer who lived a long time ago. He became the top judge in England, called the Chief Justice of the King's Bench, in 1388. He held this important job until he passed away in 1400.

Early Life and Career

We don't know much about where Sir Walter Clopton came from or his early years. He was likely from a place called Clapton in Somerset, England.

He first appeared in official records in 1376. At that time, he was a "king's serjeant." This was a special type of lawyer who worked for the king.

Throughout the 1370s and 1380s, Sir Walter often worked on legal tasks in the southwest of England. He served in many important roles. He was a judge for serious cases and helped make sure people accused of crimes were brought to trial. He also helped keep the peace and organize soldiers when needed. Sir Walter was good friends with William Montacute, who was the Earl of Salisbury.

Becoming Chief Justice

On January 31, 1388, Sir Walter Clopton was chosen to be the Chief Justice. This was a very important job, making him the head judge in the country. He got this role after the previous Chief Justice, Sir Robert Tresilian, was removed from his position.

During a special meeting of Parliament, Sir Walter had to announce the punishments for some of King Richard II's close friends. One of them was Simon de Burley, who used to be the King's teacher. Even after King Richard II got more power back, he decided to keep Sir Walter Clopton as Chief Justice. Sir Walter was also made a knight in April of that year.

Important Cases

In September 1397, King Richard II decided to take action against some powerful lords who had challenged him. Sir Walter Clopton was the judge when the Earl of Arundel, one of the King's main opponents, was accused of being disloyal to the King. The Earl was found guilty and punished.

The next year, Sir Walter was asked for his opinion on some legal decisions made in 1387. These decisions had caused problems for the King. Sir Walter wisely decided to let Parliament handle the matter. However, he privately agreed with the earlier decisions.

Later Years and Death

When Henry IV became the new King in 1399, Sir Walter Clopton kept his job as Chief Justice. He helped investigate the death of the Duke of Gloucester, which happened in September 1397. A man named John Hall was punished for the Duke's death. Many believed the Duke's death was ordered by King Richard II.

Sir Walter Clopton passed away while still serving as Chief Justice on October 21, 1400. Sir William Gascoigne took over his important role.

Family Life

Sir Walter Clopton was married to a woman named Edith. They did not have any children who lived to adulthood. When Sir Walter died, his brother Robert was named as his heir.