Saxon Justice

Saxon Justice

1. Policing Methods

   • Hue and Cry
     • An alarm was rung and the whole village would have to hunt a criminal. If someone refused, the whole village would pay a fine
   • Tithing
     • 10 men placed into one group. They were responsible for each other’s behaviour and payed one another’s fines etc.

2. Punishments

   • Wergild
     • A fine payed as compensation to the victim/family. Killing a noble cost 300 shillings and a freeman, 100 shillings. Different body parts also cost money e.g. an eye was 50 shilling
   • Execution
     • Used for treason and rebellion against a King or local Lord. This enforced loyalty
   • Mutilation
     • Reoffenders would often lose a hand, ear or nose, or even be blinded

3. Trials

   • Trial by jury
     • A local group of 12 men who knew the accused and the accuser
   • Trial by ordeal
     • Trial by Hot water - Men would pick up an item from boiling water and if healed after 3 days, they were innocent
     • Trial by Hot Iron - Women would pick up a hot iron and walk three paces, if healed after 3 days they were innocent
     • Trial by cold water - A person would be dunked into water and would be innocent if sunk as the water was ‘pure’
     • Trial by blessed sacrament - A priest prayed that the accused choked on the bread if guilty (used for clergy mostly)