He was educated at Von Feinagle's school in that city and later studied at Trinity College, where he graduated B.A.
[1] On 23 January 1829, he was called to the bar at the Middle Temple, went the northern circuit, and attended the West Riding of Yorkshire sessions.
In 1846, he was transferred to Bow Street, became chief magistrate there 6 July 1864, and was knighted on 30 Nov.
He for many years served as the chief adviser of the English government on administrative and correctional police, and his opinion was acted upon in the various licensing bills, the betting acts, Sunday trading legislation, and similar measures.
[1] He gave evidence before the committee on theatrical licenses, pointed out the position of music-halls and casinos as places of amusement, and advised as to the degree of police supervision they should be subjected to.