Grand Assize

Grand Assize was a legal procedure used in medieval England, allowing tenants who held land from a lord to bring a court case against a third party claiming the same land. Essentially, it let the original tenant seek a legal judgment on their title (ownership) directly in a royal court, rather than relying solely on local or inheritance courts. This process streamlined resolving disputes over land ownership, providing tenants with a clearer and more authoritative resolution. It was especially useful when a third party made a claim, ensuring the tenant's rights could be protected and enforced efficiently.