Pronunciation: [bˈankəs ɹˈiːd͡ʒɪs] (IPA) 
The spelling of the Latin phrase "BANCUS REGIS" can be broken down phonetically as /ˈbaŋ.kus ˈre.ɡis/. The word "bancus" is pronounced with a short "a" sound, as in "cat", followed by a nasal "n" sound and a hard "k" sound. "Regis" is pronounced with a soft "g" sound, as in "giant", and a long "i" sound, as in "eye". Together, the phrase translates to "the king's bench" and is commonly used in legal terminology.
"Bancus regis" is a Latin term that translates to "the king's bench" in English. It refers to a type of court that existed in medieval England, serving as the highest court of common law jurisdiction controlled by the king. The term "bancus regis" derives its name from the physical structure of the court, which typically consisted of a raised bench where the king and his judges would sit to preside over cases.
Established during the late 12th century, the king's bench had jurisdiction over matters pertaining to criminal cases, disputes between subjects and matters regarding the Crown. Unlike other courts at the time, the king's bench was not limited to a specific geographical area but dealt with cases from across the country. This allowed the king's bench to develop a consistent body of law that was applicable to the whole of England.
The justices of the king's bench were appointed directly by the king and were primarily responsible for interpreting and enforcing the law. They had the authority to issue writs, which were orders directing lower courts or officials to take specific actions. The decisions made by the king's bench were considered binding, archetypal precedents that other courts were expected to follow.
Over time, the jurisdiction of the king's bench expanded, leading to the development of new courts and legal structures. However, the term "bancus regis" continues to hold historical significance and serves as a reminder of the influential role that this court played in shaping English common law.
