The Provincial Royal Audience was the most significant provincial authority. Originating during the viceroyal period, it replaced the Norman Provincial Justiciaries and had jurisdiction over both civil and criminal cases. It handled first-instance cases from the province and appeals against decisions issued by royal or baronial courts.
At the head of this tribunal was the Presiding Officer, assisted by three auditors, acting as magistrates and judges; a Fiscal Attorney, who served as the public prosecutor and defender of the treasury’s interests; and a Public Defender for the Poor, who provided free legal aid. Clerical duties were carried out by the Registrar and the Secretary.
The Presiding Officer, in addition to being the head of the tribunal, also served as the Governor and Military Commander of the Province, with economic powers to ensure the good governance and administration of justice.
With the establishment of the Intendencies for civil and judicial administration, the authority of this magistracy was diminished. It was abolished by the law of May 20, 1808, No. 140. In its place, First Instance Tribunals with both civil and criminal jurisdiction were created.
Content Overview:
The collection includes civil documents, such as:
● Dispatches
● Elections of the Royal Audience
● Appeals
● Accounts
● Witness examinations
● Procedural receipts
Index and Inventory:
