Recognizance Papers, 1754-1823

About This Collection

A recognizance is an obligation of record, which a party enters into before some court of record or magistrate, with a condition to perform some particular act. Failing to do so, the party (recognizor) is obliged to pay a specific sum to the court or to the other party involved in the case. The object of a recognizance is generally to secure the presence of a defendant to perform or suffer the judgment of the court. Images of recognizance papers filed include writs of error, writs returned to the court, writs for appearance, writs sur certiorari, writs for peace and good behavior, and writs for bail. Information provided includes name of plaintiff, name and residence of defendant, amount of recognizance, and duties required. Other documents are also found, such as distringas to nisi prius, exceptions to bail, orders of the court, and bonds. Of interest may be the final folder, which documents a United States Circuit Court (Third District) case, as well as one from within the Commonwealth involving a conspiracy charge.

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Recognizance Papers (Roll 7784)
Recognizance Papers (Roll 7785)
Recognizance Papers (Roll 7786)