William Battine facts for kids

Portrait of William Battine, a legal expert and poet.

William Battine (born January 25, 1765 – died September 5, 1836) was an English legal expert and a poet. He held many important jobs in the legal system during his life.

Early Life and Education

William Battine was born in East Morden, Sussex, England, on January 25, 1765. His mother's family was connected to an old noble title, the barony of Bray, but William never tried to claim it publicly.

He started his education at Trinity College, Cambridge in 1774. Later, he moved to Trinity Hall, Cambridge, where he became a fellow (a senior member of the college) at a young age. He earned his first law degree (LL.B.) in 1780 and a higher law degree (LL.D.) in 1785.

Legal Career and Public Service

On November 3, 1785, William Battine became a member of the College of Doctors of Law in London. This allowed him to work as a lawyer in special courts, like those dealing with church matters (ecclesiastical courts) and sea laws (admiralty courts). He quickly became very busy and successful.

From 1812 to 1827, he served as one of the gentlemen of the privy chamber. These were special assistants to the king. He was known to be close friends with the Prince of Wales, who later became King George IV. It's even said that he helped solve an argument between the prince and his father, King George III.

For many years, Battine was the main legal advisor for the high court of admiralty. He also held the position of chancellor for the diocese of Lincoln, which meant he was a chief legal officer for that church area. He held several other legal roles too. In 1797, he was chosen as a fellow of the Royal Society, which is a group for important scientists and thinkers.

Later Life and Writings

As he grew older, William Battine developed some unusual habits. He faced financial difficulties later in his life. He passed away on September 5, 1836. Following his wishes, he was buried privately five days later in the church of St. George the Martyr in Southwark.

In 1822, Battine published a dramatic poem called 'Another Cain: a Mystery.' He wrote this poem because he wanted to correct what he saw as disrespectful ideas in Lord Byron's famous poem, 'Cain.'

He also published a short book called 'Letter to the Judges of the King's Bench.' In this book, he argued that gentlemen of the privy chamber, like himself, should not be arrested for civil lawsuits. He believed they had a special privilege that protected them.