ABSTRACT
As Henry III. lay dying in the royal palace of Westminster a new era was dawning for England, and a change of ruler was to inaugurate a new phase in national development. Though absent from England, Edward was universally acknowledged King at his father's death. The first great step towards the reorganisation and classification of the English legal system was taken by the issue of the writs "Quo Warranto". These were directed against the liberties and franchises of the great lords. Edward's great objection to judicial liberties beyond his control is well illustrated by his dealings with the chief town of his kingdom. As a financier Edward realised the advantage of encouraging trade, and, apart from minor regulation of domestic matters, there is an illustration in the Statute of Acton Burnell. Edward realised the value of a local court when it did not interfere with the King's judicial rights.
