Grand Chambre

French court

Also known as: Chambre aux Plaids

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June 29, 2026

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The Grand Chambre was a key component of the Parlement, the supreme court in France under the ancien régime. Originating from the King's Court, it evolved into a distinct judicial body by the 13th century. The Grand Chambre served as the core of the Parlement, handling significant legal cases and appeals. It also oversaw other specialized chambers, such as the Chambre des Enquêtes, which conducted investigations. The Grand Chambre's decisions held significant authority, reflecting the king's law. This institution was eventually abolished during the French Revolution.1

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Chambre des Enquêtes
…conducting investigations ordered by the Grand Chambre of the Parlement. The Chambre des Enquêtes grew out of sessions or enquiries that were conducted at the place of the crime or suit.
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…conducting investigations ordered by the Grand Chambre of the Parlement. The Chambre des Enquêtes grew out of sessions or enquiries that were conducted at the place of the crime or suit.
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Parlement
The Grand Chambre, as the Chambre aux Plaids came to be called, remained the core of Parlement, although other chambres grew up alongside it, including the Chambre des Enquêtes (“inquiries”) and the Chambre des Requêtes (“petitions”), both instituted in the 14th century; the criminal chamber, known…
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The Grand Chambre, as the Chambre aux Plaids came to be called, remained the core of Parlement, although other chambres grew up alongside it, including the Chambre des Enquêtes (“inquiries”) and the Chambre des Requêtes (“petitions”), both instituted in the 14th century; the criminal chamber, known…
Read More