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Simple English definitions for legal terms
trial by combat
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A quick definition of trial by combat:
Term: Trial by Combat
Definition: Trial by combat was a way of settling disputes in the Middle Ages where the two people involved in the disagreement would fight each other. The idea was that God would give victory to the person who was in the right. This method was introduced into England by the Normans after 1066, but it was not very popular and was rarely used. It was replaced by other methods of trial and was officially abolished in 1818.
A more thorough explanation:
Trial by combat was a legal practice in Europe and England during the Middle Ages. It was a trial that was decided by personal battle between the disputants. The idea behind this practice was that God would give victory to the person who was in the right.
This method was introduced into England by the Normans after 1066, but it was not widely accepted and was little used. It became obsolete several centuries before being formally abolished in 1818. It was replaced in practice by the grand assize and indictment.
For example, if someone was accused of a crime, they could choose to fight the accuser in a personal battle. The winner of the battle would be considered innocent, and the loser would be found guilty.
Trial by combat was a controversial practice, and many people did not believe that it was a fair way to determine guilt or innocence.