Trial records

[Mccrorj2512]

I have a distant relative, 1st cousin twice removed, who I believe was jailed in 1921 for a rather unpleasant offence. He entered a guilty plea but I’m not sure in which court. I know he was received at Preston Prison on the 26th September and believe this was the day he appeared in court. I assume it was an assizes court as the prison record was counter signed by the clerk of the assize in December. I’m keen to confirm that this is my relative and better understand the offence. Does anyone have any idea which court this is likely to be and how I would obtain more information about the offence?

[ShaunJ]

Have you searched for a newspaper report of his committal and/or trial ?

[Mccrorj2512]

Shaun, I have with little success! Not sure how interesting it would be outside his immediate community and he entered a guilty plea at his first hearing! Court papers would at least contain an indictment which would give me as much as I needed. Will keep on looking. Thanks Jim

[PurdeyB]

Have you see this National Archives article? It might give you some pointers if not https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/help-with-your-research/research-guides/criminal-trials-assize-courts-1559-1971/#3-the-range-of-assize-court-records-and-the-information-they-contain

You need to identify the court to be able to retrieve details of the offence. It looks like you'll be able to search by surname on Find my Past for 1921.

[heatherjulie]

If you give his name either on here or in a message, I will try to look for you.

[Mccrorj2512]

Heather, hope this all makes sense. I’ve inferred several things from the info below. Finlay, I suspect is the circuit judge and could c.m.h.l be six calendar months hard labour.

The info I have from Prison records is as follows;

John Richard Braithwaite, 22 Labourer, from Barrow in Furness. Heard before Finlay, S.C. on 28th October 1921.He entered a guilty plea and received 6 months c.m.h.l

Thanks for your offer of help.

[ShaunJ]

The trial on 28 October was at Lancaster Assizes before Commissioner Finlay. Not reported in newspapers as far as I can see.

[ShaunJ]

The committal proceedings were at Barrow in Furness on 26 September

[Mccrorj2512]

Shaun, are details of the indictment outlined during commital? Looking for any address or victim details.