The Infants Lawyer

The first English treatise on the law of infants. Originally published: London: Printed by J. Nutt, 1712. viii (iii-viii new Introduction), [24], 380, [27] pp. With a New Introduction by Morris L. Cohen [1927-2010], Professor of Law, Yale Law School. Reprint of the second edition. The Infants Lawyer was the first English treatise on the subject. Its twenty comprehensive chapters, organized by topic, consist of a digest of case and statute law with explanatory comments. It was first published in 1697. A much expanded second edition was issued in 1712; it was reissued without changes in 1726.

“Toward the end of the seventeenth century and through the eighteenth century, people began to see children as constituting a unique stage in human development requiring different treatment and understanding appropriate to their level of intellectual, emotional and physical maturity. As a result, many aspects of their lives were changed — their clothes, their education and discipline, their responsibilities in the home and family, and even their books and games. (…) It was inevitable that change occurred as well in the way the law dealt with children. This transitional period was also undoubtedly a significant factor in stimulating the writing and publication of The Infant’s Lawyer, a work which reflected that change. And, in return, perhaps we can assume that this relatively enlightened treatise contributed to the improved treatment of children under English law.” —MORRIS L. COHEN, Introduction, vii-viii

Published anonymously, this book is believed to be the work of SAMUEL CARTER (baptized 1641, died 1713), a barrister of the Inner Temple. Librarian of that Inn, he was a notable treatise writer and law reporter.

Author Biography

Samuel Carter (baptized 1641, died 1713), was a barrister of the Inner Temple. Librarian of that Inn, he was a notable treatise writer and law reporter. [1927-2010], Professor of Law, Yale Law School