Blackburn has a long and varied legal history, stretching back to the city's very beginnings. The town was first established in 1291 as a market town under Henry de Lacy, Earl of Lincoln, and it quickly became an important hub for trade.
The Furtherance of Justice
In 1389, Blackburn was granted borough status by its owners – the lords of Clitheroe. This gave the town certain privileges that would later shape both its economy and its legal system. One such privilege was 'the furtherance of justice', or the right to hold courts and dispense judgement within their own jurisdiction.
The court system in Blackburn was established as a way of providing justice to the townsfolk and regulating trade. It allowed the lords to hear cases, impose fines and punishments, and settle disputes between parties without resorting to violence. This arrangement served Blackburn well for centuries.
The Manor Court System
In 1390, Henry de Lacy set up the first manor court system in Blackburn. The manor courts were responsible for settling disputes between all citizens within their jurisdiction – from minor matters such as debt collection and rent payments to more serious cases involving criminal offences. The judges of these courts were appointed by the lord, usually from among his own retainers or local landowners.
The manor court system also provided a way for the lord to collect tax revenue. The lords would charge fees for hearing cases and levying fines, as well as a form of rent on goods sold in the market. This money was used to maintain order in the town and fund other public works such as bridges or roads.
The Growth of Common Law
By the late 15th century, Blackburn had developed its own unique legal system which blended elements of English common law with local customs and practices. This system became known as 'Blackburn law' and it remained largely unchanged until 1835 when a new act of Parliament introduced sweeping reforms.
The new legislation overhauled many aspects of Blackburn's legal system, including the incorporation of English common law principles and the introduction of a more modern court structure. This saw the establishment of both county courts and assizes – which were responsible for hearing criminal cases – as well as a circuit court to deal with civil cases.
The Modern Legal System
In recent years, Blackburn's legal system has undergone further changes in line with advances in technology and increased access to justice. Courts are now fully digitalised, making it easier for citizens to file claims or disputes online and streamlining administrative processes behind the scenes.
The town has also benefited from the introduction of a number of specialist legal services that cater to specific areas such as family law, personal injury, or criminal defence. This has allowed people to access more specialised advice and support than ever before.
