grand jour

The term "grand jour" in French law refers to a special session of a court, particularly the Parlement of Paris, held in a province. These sessions were often convened during times of civil unrest to assert the central government's authority. For instance, they were held during the Wars of Religion in the 16th century and after the Fronde rebellions in the 17th century. In Champagne, the "grand jour" was a more regular fixture, though by the 16th century, it met less frequently, handling significant cases and appeals from lower courts. In modern times, assize courts in France and Germany handle the most serious criminal offenses.1

It is important to distinguish this from the "grand tour," a multiyear journey undertaken by wealthy young men from northern Europe, especially England, to complete their education, typically through France and Italy.2