On the first day of the Sessions with due formality and solemnity the Lord Mayor takes the central chair on the Bench, which is reserved for him, whilst the bailiff and crier (commonly called the usher) makes the following proclamation:

"All persons who have anything to do before my Lords the King's Justices of Oyer and Terminer, and general gaol delivery for the jurisdiction of the Central Criminal Court, draw near and give your attendance".

The Clerk of the Court then proceeds with the usual ballot for the Grand Jury, the Lord Mayor considers excuses for absence, and inflicts fines in appropriate cases. The Grand Jury then choose their foreman, and the following oaths are taken:

 

OATH OF THE FOREMAN OF THE GRAND JURY

"I swear by Almighty God that I as foreman of this grand inquest for our sovereign Lord the King, and the jurisdiction of the Central Criminal Court, will diligently inquire, and true presentment make of all such matters and things as shall be given to me in charge, or otherwise come to my knowledge, touching upon this present service; the King's counsel, my fellows', and my own, I will observe and keep secret; I will present no one through envy, hatred or ill will; neither will I leave anyone unpresented through fear, favour, affection, reward, or the hope or promise thereof, but I will present all things truly and indifferently as the same shall come to my knowledge, according to the best of my skill and understanding".

OATH OF OTHER GRAND JURORS

"I swear by Almighty God that the same oath that my foreman hath taken on his part, I will well and truly observe, perform, and keep on my part".

The following proclamation is then made:

"My Lords the King's Justices do strictly charge and command all persons to keep silence, while the charge is given to the grand jury, upon pain of imprisonment".

The Recorder then proceeds to charge the Grand Jury. It is customary for the Bar not to be present during this charge. After the charge is delivered, the Bar is admitted, and the formal work of the Courts follows.

From The Old Bailey by Albert Crew, Barrister-at-Law, publ. Ivor Nicholson & Watson Ltd., London, 1933