Local Gov

• Henry wanted to make sure laws were followed by all subjects but lacked paid officials in the localities to enforce his laws. He had to rely on the nobility and gentry to carry out wishes.
• Earl of Shrewsbury was relied on for looking after the West Midlands, and Lord Hastings in the North Midlands.
• The Justice of the Peace were:

  • Unpaid officials
  • Appointed annually
  • Men from second rank landowners
• Role of JPs

  • Implementing social and economic statutes
  • Dispensing justice and trying criminal offences
  • Upholding public order
  • Arresting poachers
  • Empowered to grant bail
  • Could act without a jury and replace suspect members of juries
• JPs were dependant on other officials to bring offenders to them.
• Local officials were reluctant to act as JPs were unpopular and offices were left unfilled.