Hof- og Stadsretten

Hof- og Stadsretten was a modern-style court of justice introduced in Denmark, specifically for Copenhagen, by Johann Friedrich Struensee in 1771.

Instigated by Struensee and the overpræsident in Copenhagen, Ulrik Adolf Holstein (1731–1789), Hof- og Stadsretten was created in an attempt to rationalize the chaotic Danish court system.

[1] The initial plan was for Hof- og Stadsretten to be based in Copenhagen City Hall.

When it proved impossible to find the necessary space, Hof- og Stadsretten was instead referred to rented premises in the Plessen Mansion.

[2] Hof- og Stadsretten introduced new principles to the Danish court system, especially by being divided into separate investigative and judicial departments.