What role did a praetor play in Roman courts?

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Roman law *Augustus from Prima Porta*, marble statue, c. 20 bce; in the Vatican Museums, Vatican City.

In ancient Rome, the praetor was a high-ranking judicial officer with broad authority over legal proceedings. Their role evolved significantly over time:1

Civil Jurisdiction: Initially, the praetor urbanus handled cases of equity between Roman citizens, while the praetor peregrinus was established to manage suits involving foreigners.1
Legal Development: Praetors issued edicts outlining the procedures they would follow. These edicts became essential for adapting Roman law to changing social conditions, emphasizing principles of equity and good faith.1
Criminal Courts: Following reforms by Sulla, the number of praetors increased to eight. While two continued to oversee civil matters, the others were assigned to preside over specific criminal courts, including those for extortion, bribery, murder, and treason.1

Beyond their judicial duties, praetors held administrative responsibilities, such as organizing public games and occasionally exercising government authority in the absence of consuls. After their term, they typically served as provincial governors.1