Edward Marshall Hall

Edward Marshall Hall

Edward Marshall Hall was born on September 16th, 1858

Full Name: Edward Marshall Hall
Place of Birth: London, England
Nationality: English
Occupation: Lawyer and politician
Birth Year: 1858
Death Year: 1927
Education: Oxford University
Notable Case: Yarmouth Murder

A renowned defense attorney who famously used his exceptional oratory skills to secure acquittals in high-profile murder trials, earning him the nickname "The Great Defender".

Written by: Emma Thompson Emma Thompson

Sir Edward Marshall Hall: The Great Defender

Edward Marshall Hall, a renowned English barrister, left an indelible mark on the legal profession with his exceptional oratory skills, earning him the nickname "The Great Defender." He successfully defended many individuals accused of notorious murders, captivating the public and making him a household name during the late Victorian and Edwardian eras.

Early Life and Education

Born in Brighton on September 16, 1858, Marshall Hall was the son of the esteemed physician Alfred Hall. He received his education at Rugby School and St John's College, Cambridge. Unconventionally, he took a gap year in Paris and Australia before returning to complete his law degree.

Personal Life and Tragedy

Marshall Hall's personal life was marred by tragedy. He married Ethel Moon in 1882, but the union was unhappy, and they were frequently apart. They legally separated in 1889, only to be followed by Ethel's death from a botched abortion in 1890. A sensational lawsuit ensued, involving Ethel's lover, the abortionist, and several others. This traumatic event had a profound impact on Marshall Hall's career, leading him to become an ardent defender of women mistreated by men.

He later married Henriette Hetty Kroeger, with whom he had one daughter, Elna. His elder brother, John Cressy Hall, was a first-class cricketer and merchant who experienced initial business success, only to later live in poverty in South Africa. Marshall Hall supported him financially, sending money via Archdeacon Gaul.

Rise to Fame as a Barrister

Marshall Hall's exceptional oratory skills made him a formidable defender in the courtroom. He was known for his ability to connect with jurors and sway their opinions. His success in high-profile cases, including the Camden Town Murder, the Green Bicycle Case, and the Yarmouth Murder, cemented his reputation as a master of defense.

During his time, big criminal and civil trials were widely reported on by the popular press, making Marshall Hall and other successful barristers of the era household names. However, the widespread belief that he was a better orator than lawyer may have contributed to his failure to achieve elevation to the High Court Bench, a source of great disappointment to him.

Legacy and Impact

Sir Edward Marshall Hall's remarkable career spanned over three decades, during which he defended many notable cases. His legacy extends beyond the courtroom, inspiring generations of lawyers and leaving an indelible mark on the legal profession.

Despite his flaws and personal tragedies, Marshall Hall remains one of the most celebrated barristers in English history, known for his unwavering commitment to justice and his unshakeable belief in the innocence of his clients.

Timeline
1858
Birth in London
Edward Marshall Hall was born on April 16, 1858, in London, England. He would go on to become a renowned lawyer and politician.
1882
Called to the Bar
Hall was called to the Bar in 1882, beginning his career as a lawyer. He quickly gained a reputation as a skilled advocate.
1895
Elected to Parliament
Hall was elected to Parliament in 1895, representing the Southport constituency. He served as a Member of Parliament until 1916.
1910
Defends Crippen
Hall defended Dr. Hawley Harvey Crippen in a highly publicized murder trial in 1910. Although Crippen was found guilty, Halls defense was praised for its skill.
1927
Death in London
Edward Marshall Hall died on November 24, 1927, in London, England, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest lawyers of his time.
Edward Marshall Hall

Edward Marshall Hall Quiz

What nickname was Edward Marshall Hall famously known as?

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FAQ
What was Edward Marshall Halls most famous court case?
Edward Marshall Halls most famous court case was the trial of George Joseph Smith, known as the Brides in the Bath case, in which Hall defended the accused murderer.
How did Edward Marshall Hall become a famous lawyer?
Edward Marshall Hall became a famous lawyer through his exceptional advocacy skills and his ability to defend clients in high-profile cases, including murder trials and divorce proceedings.
What was Edward Marshall Halls early life and education like?
Edward Marshall Hall was born in 1858 in London, England. He studied law at Cambridge University and was called to the bar in 1882.
What were Edward Marshall Halls views on capital punishment?
Edward Marshall Hall was a strong opponent of capital punishment and argued against it in many of his cases.
How did Edward Marshall Halls legal career span?
Edward Marshall Halls legal career spanned over four decades, during which he defended many high-profile clients and earned a reputation as one of the greatest advocates of his time.

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