| Description | Early files contain miscellaneous writs addressed to the mayor and sheriffs including, for example, an order to collect £33 owed by the late sheriffs to Joan, Princess of Wales, the king's mother (see SFW/4). There are also pardons in return for fines (see SFW/3). From c.1422, the files contain writs alleging an error in the record and process of a case in the pentice court, thereby removing it to the county court of the palatinate, to be heard before the justice of Chester. From c.1663, writs were also directed to the sheriffs concerning cases in such central courts as king's bench, common pleas and exchequer. Sheriffs' files: writs also contain numerous documents relating to the sheriffs' duties in the execution of these writs, for example orders to the sheriffs; officers: bonds for the appearance of plaintiffs and defendants; and papers relating to the receipt and discharge of prisoners at the city gaol, together with lists of prisoners and execution orders. There are also inventories of shop and household goods. Such documents may also be found on sheriffs' files (SF). There are gaps in the series. |