Privy Council
/ˈprɪvi ˈkaʊnsəl/
Definitions
- (n.) A body of advisors to the sovereign in the United Kingdom, historically exercising executive and judicial functions.
The Privy Council advised the monarch on matters of state policy.
- (n.) In some Commonwealth countries, a court of final appeal derived from the historical Privy Council of the UK.
The decision was appealed to the Privy Council as the highest appellate court.
Forms
- privy council
- privy councils
Related terms
See also
Commentary
The term applies both to a historical advisory body to the monarch and a judicial appellate body in some Commonwealth jurisdictions; context distinguishes usage.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.