Tribunal of Scales

The judicial body of the Ashen Kingdom, known as the Tribunal of Scales, is a robust and intricate system designed to uphold justice, maintain order, and ensure the fair application of laws throughout the realm. Operating under the guidance of The Overseer of Justice, one of the twelve members of the Council of Flames, the Tribunal of Scales serves as the ultimate arbiter in legal matters, balancing the needs of the kingdom with the rights of its citizens.
The Tribunal of Scales is composed of various courts and officials, each playing a specific role within the judicial system. The key components include:
High Tribunal: The supreme court of the Ashen Kingdom, presided over by the Chief Justiciar and six Associate Justiciars. This court handles the most significant legal cases and constitutional matters.
Regional Courts: These courts are distributed throughout the kingdom, each presided over by a Regional Magistrate. They handle cases pertinent to their respective regions, including civil, criminal, and administrative disputes.
Specialized Courts: Courts that focus on specific areas of law, such as commerce, magic regulation, and military justice. These courts are staffed by experts in their respective fields to ensure informed and fair judgments.
Arbiters: These are traveling judges who move between towns and villages to administer justice in areas without permanent courts. They handle minor disputes and criminal cases, ensuring that all citizens have access to legal recourse.
Investigative Office: A body of investigators and enforcers who gather evidence, apprehend suspects, and ensure that cases brought before the courts are thoroughly vetted. They work closely with local authorities and the Tribunal to maintain law and order.
The Overseer of Justice
The Overseer of Justice, a member of the Council of Flames, is the highest authority within the judicial system. This individual is responsible for overseeing the entire judicial process, ensuring that laws are justly applied and that the rights of all citizens are protected. The Overseer of Justice has the power to appoint judges, review significant cases, and provide legal counsel to The Phoenix and the Council of Flames.
Duties and Responsibilities
The Tribunal of Scales has a wide range of duties, crucial to maintaining justice and order within the Ashen Kingdom:
Adjudication: The primary function of the Tribunal is to adjudicate disputes, both civil and criminal, ensuring that justice is served impartially and fairly.
Law Interpretation: The High Tribunal has the authority to interpret the laws of the kingdom, providing clarity and ensuring consistency in their application.
Appeals Process: Citizens have the right to appeal decisions made by lower courts. The High Tribunal reviews these appeals to ensure that justice is upheld.
Legislative Review: The Tribunal can review new laws proposed by the Council of Flames, ensuring they align with the kingdom’s constitution and principles of justice.
Oversight of Magical Practices: Given the prominence of magic within the Ashen Kingdom, the Tribunal plays a critical role in regulating magical practices, ensuring they are used responsibly and ethically.
Protection of Rights: The Tribunal safeguards the rights of all citizens, ensuring that everyone, regardless of status, receives fair treatment under the law.
Punishment and Rehabilitation: The Tribunal is responsible for sentencing convicted individuals and overseeing their rehabilitation, aiming to reintegrate them into society as reformed citizens.

Key Figures and Roles (Final Days before the Fall)
Chief Justiciar Thalindra Rael: A wise and seasoned judge known for her impartiality and deep understanding of the law. She presides over the High Tribunal and ensures that justice is served at the highest levels.
Associate Justiciar Galen Harrow: An expert in magical law, he handles cases involving misuse of magic and ensures that magical practices are conducted ethically.
Regional Magistrate Liora Maren: Presides over the Western Region, known for her dedication to community justice and her efforts to make the legal system accessible to all citizens.
Arbiter Eldric Voss: A traveling judge renowned for his fair judgments and ability to resolve disputes quickly and effectively in remote areas.
Investigator Maira Tegan: Leads the Investigative Office, known for her sharp intellect and unyielding pursuit of truth and justice.