• The court dates from the 14th century, and much of its early history concerns prize and piracy cases. Its jurisdiction varied through the centuries, sometimes extending into criminal matters and other areas of law not related directly to maritime issues. The Judicature Acts of 1873–1875 merged the Court into the High Court as part of the Probate, Divorce, and Admiralty Division. The Administration of Justice Act of 1970 established a new Admiralty Court as part of the Queen’s Bench Division of the High Court. It is regulated by the Supreme Court Act of 1981.
— Also termed Court of the Lord High Admiral; Court of Admiralty. Cf. ADMIRALTY(1).