The course of proceedings before the sub-chamberlain’s courts of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania (1764–1791)

Abstract

The course of proceedings before the sub-chamber courts of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania differed significantly from that of other first instance jurisdictions (courts) of the nobility. The chamberlain issued summonses only after a case had been referred to him by the land courts, town courts, or the Court of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, and then informed the parties to the proceedings of the date of departure to the disputed land. At least some of the proceedings were conducted in the open, although the vice-chamberlains sometimes used courtrooms or wooden structures erected by the parties. The correct course of the boundary in question was determined after hearing the arguments of the parties, reviewing the documents confirming the rights to the land, inspecting the boundary markers and questioning witnesses. These activities did not always proceed smoothly. The decision was made in the form of a judgment, which was subject to appeal. It was issued by the chamberlain or his deputy (bailiff) and recorded by the chamberlain's regent. Not all proceedings before the chamberlain's courts were peaceful. There were also frequent complaints about their high costs.