SEVEN CENTURIES OF LAW AND ORDER
1215
The withdrawal of support by the Church effectively ends the age-old practice of ‘trial by ordeal’ as a way of determining a person’s guilt. Four years later, in January 1219, Henry II introduces trial by petty jury in England.
1351
An act of parliament under Edward III defines treason in law. Despite major amendments, it remains one of the earliest English statutes still in force.
1494
The Vagabonds and Beggars Act provides measures for poor relief
