Norman Church Courts

What were Church courts in Norman times?

Church courts were introduced by the Normans, and gave the Church the ability to try its own clergymen and to punish moral crimes. This gave the Church more legal powers.

How did Norman Church courts affect ordinary people?

William had encouraged the Church to set up Church courts to deal with moral crimes.

How did Norman Church courts affect churchmen?

The Church also claimed the right to try any churchman accused of a crime in its own courts, presided by the local bishop.