THE COMPOSITION OF MAGISTRATES AT THE SECOND HALF OF THE XIXTH CENTURY (ON THE MATERIALS OF SMOLENSK PROVINCE)

Abstract

The abolition of serfdom resulted, in particular, in the need of reforming the judicial system. Namely during this period was formed the institute of magistrates. The article discusses the features of the social composition of magistrates in Smolensk province during the second half of the nineteenth century. The operation of magistrates’ courts was due to the effective zemstvos’ personnel policy and to elected, democratic backgrounds. The article shows property and education level of the precinct and honorary magistrates and indicates the prevalence of middle nobility in ensuring magistrate’s justice personnel.