A page for a timeline of dates. Please link to further pages for more reading, rather than adding too much detail in this page. See also
LawBooks
1000s
Post-1066
Language barrier between Saxon and Norman is sharp and indicative of strong class barrier.
1086
Domesday Book formalizes property ownership.
1135-1154
Reign of Stephen and
the Anarchy.
1166
Assize of Clarendon, part of effort of
Henry II to restore property rights after the Anarchy.
1169
Assize of Mort D'Ancestor?
1200s
1215
Clergy formally banned from participation in trial by ordeal, though not formally removed from English law until 1820.
Magna Carta
1220
First uses of
jury? .
1250s
Likely period for writing of
Bracton.
1290
Corruption scandal; judges thrown out and chief judge of King's Bench executed.
1600s
1670
Bushel's case prohibits the attaintment of 'honest' juries.
1700s
Felons begin to get the right to counsel.
1765
First formal teaching of the law outside the Inns, with Blackstone's appointment at Oxford.