Prize Court

Prize Court: A court organised in connection with the Admiralty Division of the High Court of Justice to condemn as prizes any enemies' ships taken in warfare. The Court hears evidence as to the capture and nationality of the ship, and may order its cargo to be disposed of under the rules of equity, innocent third parties owning such cargo not forfeiting their rights. The value of the ships, when finally disposed of, becomes "prize money" and is divided amongst those who assisted at its capture.