How Easy Is It to Eliminate an Office? Royal Edicts on the Elimination of Offices (France, Later 16th Century)

Abstract

During the Ancient regime in France, the selling of offices (vénalité des offices) was one of the important sources to replenish the royal coffers. Despite the advantage of this practice for both the Crown and office-holders (the prestige of a regal employment, a salary or payment for services, social mobility, etc.), the selling of offices was always criticized by society. The deputies of the States General held during the later 16th century demanded to cease the selling of new offices, cut down the number of officials, and eliminate unnecessary positions and jurisdictions. That time can be considered as a ‘field of compromises’, as kings were not yet ready to relinquish the profit they were getting from the sale of offices but displayed willingness to implement some reforms. Although it was a king’s right to create new offices and eliminate the old ones, the only way to reduce the number of offices was to eliminate the vacant ones, i.e., those whose holders had died, otherwise the king would have to reimburse the owners. The analysis of acts and other decrees concerning the elimination of offices which were distinguished in the legislation of King Henry III Valois demonstrates that neither office-holders (owners of offices), nor the Crown were, in fact, interested in the elimination of offices. Some edicts concerning the elimination of offices were later cancelled.