Trial

A trial is a legal proceeding that is convened after the occurrence of a crime. They can take a variety of form depending on circumstance, the nature of the crime, the culture and faith of the region, and the identity of the victim and perpetrator.

Types of Trial

Amongst the elites, only lords and those of greater station have the right to do justice. Masters amongst the First Men and Landed Knights amongst the Andals must seek the justice of their liege lord or king in order to see justice done. These rights are often referred to as the 'rights of pit and gallows'.

Lords and Magnars may make rulings at their discretion, though where trying those of noble blood or important station in society - they may take steps to ensure the trial appears just. Often the First Men rely on other men to stand with the accused/accuser to judge the weight of each case.

Amongst the Andals, any knight is entitled to trial-by-battle, in which he proves his innocence by wager of his body. Among the First Men there is no such right - but men may decide to settle their differences this way.

The Faithful of the Seven hold that they have the right to cast judgement over their own - though how this has been interpreted varies. Some mean this to say that only the Faith can hold a trial for septons, septas, holy brothers and other individuals sworn to the service of the Seven. Nonetheless, some extend this to mean all anointed knights, and others all those who are born and raised in the Light of the Seven.