The Assize of Northampton, largely based on the Assize of Clarendon of 1166, is among a series of measures taken by King Henry II of England that solidified the rights of the knightly tenants and made all possession of land subject to and guaranteed by royal law.
The assize confirmed the offences to be brought forward by the jury of presentment according to Clarendon, and added arson and forgery to the list.
Bailiffs and sheriffs were made answerable for their profits, as well as given powers to hold thieves.
[3] Clause 7 dealt with the introduction of important new legislation, chiefly the king's right to have certain cases brought into his court.
[4] Crown revenue increased significantly following the Assize, reflecting the impact of the judicial eyres.