Walter FitzWalter, 4th Baron FitzWalter

However, since his stepmother Philippa Mohun had a claim to a third of her husband's estate as a widow, his inheritance was greatly reduced.

[2] In contrast to his ancestors, FitzWalter served less in the military and was primarily politically active.

As Baron FitzWalter, he took part in parliaments, allying himself with Thomas of Woodstock, Duke of Gloucester, under whom his father had served in the Hundred Years' War.

[3] In February 1395 he accompanied Gloucester when he travelled to Ireland on behalf of King Richard II.

On 18 October 1399, during the first parliament of the new King Henry IV, Fitzwalter accused Edward of Norwich, Duke of Aumale, his stepfather, of the murder of Gloucester and challenged him to single combat.