JUSTICES OF OYER AND TERMINER, were justices deputed on some special occasions to hear and determine particular causes.—The commission of oyer and terminer is directed to certain persons, upon any insurrection, heinous demeanour, or trespass committed, who must first inquire, by means of the grand jury or inquest, before they are empowered to hear and determine by the help of the petit jury. It was formerly held that no judge or other lawyer could act in the commission of oyer and terminer, or that of gaol-delivery, within the county where he was born or inhabited; but it was thought proper by 12 Geo. II. cap. 27. to allow any man to be a justice of oyer and terminer and general gaol-delivery within any county of England.