Baron

A Baron is a title of nobility found throughout Omath, ranking lower than a Count but higher than a Lord or Knight. The feminine version of this title is Baroness. While specifics vary between kingdoms, the examples presented here are a general reference inspired by the Kingdom of Falcrest. 
Traditionally a hereditary title, a Baron may be appointed by a higher-ranking noble. In most countries, a Baron is appointed over a region by that country's monarch but Barons can also be vassals of other nobles, with their domains assigned as a reward for loyalty or services.
The term derives from the Nuairan word Baírn "Servant and Soldier," with records indicating the word came with the First People.

Appointment

While the method of appointment varies, the usual process follows that a monarch (typically a King issues a writ of summons directing the chosen person to appear at that monarch's court. At court, they swear an oath of fealty to the monarch and are presented with a coronet that is to be worn when conducting courtly matters within their own domain.

Duties

The Baron is entrusted to hold and maintain a tract of land as issued by their monarch (or superior), to raise and train a force-at-arms, and to collect and remit taxes to the crown, often by means of remittance to their superior. In times of war, a Baron was often placed in command of an Infantry formation, typically conscripted from their demesne.

Benefits

The Baron[ess] is allowed to hold the land appointed to them indefinitely and to pass that land and holdings onto their heirs.

Accoutrements & Equipment

A Baron is known by their coronet (see above), as well as their coat-of-arms, which may feature a coronet above the shield to represent the physical item.

Grounds for Removal/Dismissal

A Baron may only be stripped of their title by the monarch of the appointing kingdom. Just as with appointment, a writ of summons must be issued directing the Baron to report to the monarch's court. Failure to abide by the writ of summons typically results in the issuance of a writ of seizure instructing agents of the crown to arrest and deliver the Baron to the monarch's court.

Type

Nobility, Honorific / Ceremonial

Form of Address

His/Her/Your Lordship Baron[ess]
More simply: "Lord/Lady <name>
It is very common for the surnames of barons and baronesses to be identical to or included in the formal title of their barony.

Source of Authority

Appointed by King, Duke, or Count

Reports directly to

Count