Sollom Emlyn was born on December 27th, 1697

Written by: Emma Thompson

Sollom Emlyn: A Crusader for Legal Reform

Sollom Emlyn, an Irish legal writer, is best known for his tireless efforts to reform the law and expose its many defects. Through his writings, he boldly pointed out the flaws in the system, advocating for change and improvement.

Early Life and Education

Born on 27 December 1697 in Dublin, Emlyn was the second son of Thomas Emlyn. He pursued the study of law, entering Leiden University as a student in 1714. He later became a member of Lincolns Inn and rose to prominence as a chamber counsel.

A Call for Reform

Emlyn's passion for reforming the law is evident in his writings. In 1730, he highlighted the tediousness and delays of civil suits, the exorbitant fees charged to counsel, and the lack of proportion between the costs recovered and the actual work done. He also criticized the overemphasis on special pleadings, the scandal of the ecclesiastical courts, and the forced unanimity of the jury in criminal cases.

Furthermore, Emlyn argued against the use of Latin records in criminal proceedings, the denial of counsel to those charged with felony, and the brutal practice of pressing to death obstinately mute prisoners. He also spoke out against capital punishment for minor offenses and the oppressions and extortions of gaolers.

Literary Contributions

Emlyn edited and expanded Thomas Salmon's A Complete Collection of State Trials, which was later continued by Francis Hargrave and Thomas Bayly Howell. He also edited Sir Matthew Hale's History of the Pleas of the Crown and published Queries Relating to Elizabeth Canning's Case in 1754.

In addition, Emlyn edited the works of Thomas Evelyn, publishing a prefatory biography in 1746. His other notable works include State Trials, published in six volumes in 1730, and A Complete Collection of State Trials, Volume VII, published in 1735.

Personal Life and Legacy

Emlyn married Mary, daughter of Rev. William Woodhouse, on 10 November 1729, and had two sons, Thomas and Sollom. Thomas followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a chancery barrister, while Sollom unfortunately passed away in 1744.

Emlyn's tireless efforts to reform the law left a lasting impact on the legal system. He died on 28 June 1754 and was interred in Bunhill Fields burying ground, where an inscription honors his memory.

Works

• ed. Sir Matthew Hale's History of the Pleas of the Crown (1736)
• Queries relating to Elizabeth Cannings Case, with Answers (1754)
• ed. State Trials (2nd ed., 6 vols., folio, 1730)
• A Complete Collection of State Trials, Volume VII (1735)
• ed. Works of Thomas Evelyn (4th ed., 3 vols., 1746)