This court is held in Doctors' Commons by the lords of the admiralty, and takes cognizance of all maritime affairs, whether civil or criminal. All crimes committed on the high seas, or on great rivers below the first bridge next the sea, are cognizable in this court only. The proceedings are the same as those adopted in civil law. The plaintiff gives security to prosecute, and, if cast, to pay what is adjudged. But in criminal cases, as the trial of pirates, and crimes, committed at sea, the process, by a special commission, is by a judge, jury, and witnesses, a judge of the common law assisting; on which occasion the court is commonly held at the Sessions House, in the Old Bailey.
Source: Leigh's New Picture of London. Printed for Samuel Leigh, 18, Strand;
by W. Clowes, Northumberland Court. 1819