answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer

The king most closely associated with improving the English legal system is Henry II (reigned 1154-1189). He established the key forerunner to the system of Assize Courts and sent his judges to try criminal cases and hear civil lawsuits in every part of the country. Previously, local grandees (earls and barons) had dealt with cases themselves or appointed their own judges - a most unsatisfactory situation. Henry II's famous quarrel with Thomas Becket arose largely from his attempt to bring the Church within the ordinary legal system. In fact, English 'legal memory' dates from the death of Henry II. In other words, English courts cannot go back before that date. A few English cities, such as London and Winchester already had charters in 1189 and are officially said to have been cities 'since time immemorial'.

User Avatar

Wiki User

16y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar
More answers
User Avatar

lebecker324

Lvl 4
2y ago

Henry II

This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: Which king of England improved the legal system?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions

What is the American legal system based on?

It is known as the "common law" legal system and is inherited from the English legal system. Like in many European countries, England's legal system had been fragmented during the Middle Ages, varying from place to place, and the church played a large role in it. King Henry II of England (reigned 1154-1189) decided to create a unified "common" legal system for the country. He sent judges to travel around the country and resolve disputes according to local customs. They would then head back to London and discuss and record their cases. Judges would then use precendent (previous decisions) to decide their cases, unless the King passed laws which overrode them.


What changes did Henry II make to how criminals were tried?

Legal reforms introduced by King Henry II of England were the first steps towards the modern system of trial by jury.


The Feudal System was introduced into England by?

King William the conqueror


Does England have a federal presidential system?

No. England is part of the UK. The UK does not have a president. It has a King or Queen.


Why was William the Conqueror a successful king?

He was a successful king because he conquered England and invented a feudal system


Why is the invasion of England important when studying the American modern legal system?

The invasion of England in 1066 by William, Duke of Normandy is considered to be the beginning of the legal system (as part of a whole system of governance). This system has been in continuous use, as modified from time to time, down to the present day. As our Founding Fathers were Englishmen and modeled our legal system on England's legal system, it is therefore the beginning of ours as well. Although we imported our legal system from England, you will remember that it was objections to some of England's laws that fueled the American revolution, so our Founding Fathers were extremely careful in setting up our legal system to make explicit changes on issues they found so wrong in British law. This is the basis of our Bill of Rights and the reason we will never, ever have a king. It is why our rulers are elected by the people and can only serve for a short term of office. It is why we separated the powers of a ruler among three independent arms - Executive, Legislative and Judicial, and set up our innovative system of checks and balances between the three arms. It is why we cannot be taxed without a majority of our representatives agreeing to it, and many other protections we now take for granted.


What legal document stated that the law not the king was the supreme power in England?

The Magna Carta signed in 1215.


Who was responsible for establishing local courts to hear legal cases in England during the century?

KING henrry 2nd was responsible for establishing local courts to hear legal cases in England during the twelfth century


Who was responsible for establishing local courts to hear legal cases in England during the twelfth century?

KING henrry 2nd was responsible for establishing local courts to hear legal cases in England during the twelfth century


Which leader issued strict punishments and a system wherby colonists could be given land if they agreed to farm it in the colony of Jamestown?

The leader was King George III of England.


How did Alfred the great impact the world today?

Alfred the Great was the King of Wessex who successfully defended England against Viking invasions. He promoted education and literacy, leading to the preservation of Anglo-Saxon culture and language. His legacy is remembered as an important figure in English history and has contributed to the development of the English nation.


What political event in England gave commoners a voice in their own government?

king Henry 2's legal reforms