Praetor


 * Praetor**

The praetor was one of the higher positions in the ancient roman goverment. The praetors were essentially in control of the judiciary system. The praetors acted as supreme judges, kind of like the supreme court. There was a praetor for most provinces, and the most esteemed position was the Praetor Urbanus. The Praetor Urbanus was the next step down from the consuls, and in their abscence the Praetor Urbanus had the power and authority to act in their stead. Additionally, the praetor acted as officiator in important games, such as being the starter of chariot races. The number of praetors depended on the size of the empire at that particular time or the current ruler. For example, under the rule of Sulla there were between eight and ten praetors, and under the rule of Caesar there were between ten and twelve. Also, because sometimes praetors had a lot of input into decision making, and could potentially be in harm's way due to convicts put away, a praetor could have up to six bodyguards at one time. Another Praetor title, was the Praetor Peregrinus, who oversaw Italy.