Shire Mote

Shire mote, the highest of the three motes, or courts among the Saxons, was held twice a year, and was composed of the freeholders. Hearing both civil and ecclesiastical causes, the shire mote was presided over by an ealdorman and a bishop, who were not the absolute judges, being present chiefly to keep order and advise. Cases were decided by the majority of votes. See Hill, English Monastism, p.199.