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The Hofrat was an advisory council in the territorial states of Germany between 1300 and 1500. This council consisted of high nobles and ecclesiastics who advised the prince at his discretion. The Hofrat's business was not specialized, and its members did not convene at regular intervals.1

As governmental matters became more complex, professional "daily" or permanent councillors, often trained in Roman law, were introduced. Financial administration was handled by a separate department called the Hofkammer, and a privy council (Geheimrat) was established for state affairs.1

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