William Basset (13th-century judge)

William Basset (died ca. 1249) was an English judge.

Life and career

Basset was quite possibly the son of Simon Basset of Sapcote, but his lineage is uncertain. He forfeited for the rebellion in 1216 during the First Barons' War, but later restored his allegiance in 1217. He assisted as a justiciar in assessing for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire in 1225, and was appointed as a justice itinerant for these counties on May 27th, 1226. He later appears as a justice itinerant in 1227 and 1232. He died sometime in July 1249, when Robert, his heir, did homage.

Another William Basset was an advocate under Edward II and Edward III, and was elevated to the bench of the Common Pleas about 1337. On 18 October 1341 he was transferred to the King's Bench, where he sat till about 1350.

References

 This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: "Basset, William (d.1249?)". Dictionary of National Biography. London: Smith, Elder & Co. 1885–1900.