Trial of William of St Calais

In 1088 Rufus asks for support from Saint Calais and give him reinforcements however Saint Calais changes his mind and does not appear with Rufus.

He is captured and Rufus wanted him to be trialed under secular law, however, Saint Calais wanted it under canon law. The trial was still to be conducted in secular law (no religion)

Lots of insults passed

Saint Calais didn't deny he deserted the court but denied he'd committed the crime.

He said he was not going to do anything until his titles were restored and he was put under canon law.

He refused to accept the first proposal, that he would lose all his lands. He wanted to get help from the Pope, however, Rufus does not allow this.

Saint Calais accepts the judgment and goes into exile at Normandy.

• Shows Rufus was determined as a King to do what was right.
• Rufus was supported by the most important nobles and Barons in England.
• The sentence imposed would have acted as a deterrent to any other challenges on his authority.
• Showed Rufus thought the church was not to be considered as equal or above the authority of the crown.