Note 537 — Chapter II
Reading edition
See e.g. the statement of Hyde, L.C.J., at Twyn’s trial in 1663. L.C.J.: “If I did not mistake, you desired to have counsel; was that your request?” Twyn; “Yes.” L.C.J.: “Then I will tell you, we are bound to be of counsel with you in point of law; that is, the court, my brethren and myself, are to see that you suffer nothing for your want of knowledge in matter of law; I say we are to be of counsel with you.... To the matter of fact, whether it be so or no; in this case the law does not allow you counsel to plead for you, but in matter of law we are of counsel for you, and it shall be our care to see that you have no wrong done you.” 6 State Trials 516, 517. See also the 5th Resolution in the case of Sir Harry Vane. 6 State Trials 131.