Note 53 — Chapter VI · THE AUDIENCIA AND THE GOVERNOR: GENERAL RELATIONS

While the magistrates were allowed to proceed practically without interference in affairs of justice, the governor was instructed to keep himself informed concerning the judicial work of the audiencia.53 While forbidden to alter the judgments of the tribunal or to tamper with its sentences,54 he could excuse or remit fines with the consent of the oidores. The governor could commute sentences in criminal cases. The final pardoning power rested with the king and it was exercised upon the recommendation of the governor or the prelates55 and the Council of the Indies. There were exceptional occasions, however, on which the governor assumed the responsibility of pardoning criminals.