- May 22, 2020
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Order of the Crown and Law
Ordo Coronae et Legis
Foundation and Purpose:
The Order of the Crown and Law was established in the Year of Our Lord 2006 by King Stanislaus Grabowski to honor those individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service in upholding the rule of law, the protection of rights, and the advancement of justice within the Kingdom of Poland. This prestigious order is dedicated to recognizing the tireless efforts of judges, lawyers, legal scholars, law enforcement officials, and lawmakers who have worked to ensure the fair application of the law, maintain public order, and safeguard the rights of citizens.The Order is named after the Crown, which represents the sovereignty of the Kingdom, and Law, which symbolizes justice, fairness, and the civil duties that protect the integrity of society. The recipients of this honor are those whose work has contributed significantly to strengthening the legal systems of Poland and promoting social justice, equity, and the protection of the Kingdom’s institutions.
Classifications of the Order:
Grand Cross of the Crown and Law- Awarded to: High-ranking legal professionals, judges, or public figures who have made monumental contributions to the administration of justice, the development of legal systems, or the protection of civil liberties. This class recognizes those whose leadership has shaped the Kingdom’s legal landscape or protected its institutions at the highest level.
- Insignia: A golden cross, with intricate engravings of scales of justice and a crown at its center, suspended from a rich purple and gold sash. The sash symbolizes the nobility of the law and the sovereignty of the Kingdom.
- Awarded to: Legal professionals, legislators, and public officials who have contributed significantly to legal reform, the protection of civil rights, or the efficient administration of justice. This class acknowledges those who have worked to improve or modernize Poland’s legal systems and promote fairness and transparency in legal proceedings.
- Insignia: A silver cross featuring scales of justice and a crown, worn from a purple and silver ribbon. The silver cross signifies the recipient's dedication to upholding the law with fairness and integrity.
- Awarded to: Lawyers, judges, law enforcement officials, or public servants who have demonstrated exemplary service in their legal careers and made important contributions to the Kingdom's legal system. The Knight’s class celebrates those who work diligently in courts, law offices, or government institutions to protect citizens' rights and ensure justice is served.
- Insignia: A silver cross, featuring a small crown and scales of justice in the center, worn on a purple ribbon. The design represents a balance between the sovereignty of the Kingdom and the principles of fairness and equity.
- Awarded to: Legal professionals and law enforcement officers who have performed exceptional acts in the administration of justice or law enforcement. This class recognizes individuals whose work has had a significant impact on upholding the rule of law, especially in difficult circumstances or in advancing legal reforms.
- Insignia: A silver medal featuring a crown and scales of justice, hanging from a royal purple ribbon. The medal is awarded for outstanding contributions at a local or regional level.
Privileges and Duties:
Privileges of the Order:Recipients of the Order of the Crown and Law are granted lifelong recognition for their dedication to the rule of law and the protection of justice. Those awarded the Grand Cross or Commander ranks are entitled to use the post-nominal titles K.C.L. (Knight of the Crown and Law) or C.C.L. (Commander of the Crown and Law), and are invited to participate in royal and state functions. Members of the Order are celebrated at national legal events and are publicly acknowledged for their contributions to the Kingdom’s legal systems.
Duties of the Order:
Members are expected to serve as role models of integrity, fairness, and dedication to justice. They are called upon to mentor younger legal professionals, advocate for the development of just laws, and promote equal access to justice for all citizens. Members also serve as advisors on matters of law, policy, and governance, contributing to discussions on the legal framework and human rights within the Kingdom.
Ceremony of Investiture:
The investiture ceremony for the Order of the Crown and Law is held annually on December 8th, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, at the Royal Palace of Warsaw. The ceremony is presided over by the King of Poland, the Royal Chancellor, and the Grand Master of the Order, who is typically a distinguished figure in Poland’s legal community or a leading figure in the judicial system.The ceremony involves the formal presentation of the insignia to recipients, with speeches highlighting their contributions to the legal and judicial spheres. A formal banquet follows, where legal professionals from across the Kingdom gather to celebrate the recipients and discuss the ongoing efforts to strengthen the Kingdom’s legal institutions.
Badge and Insignia Design:
The Royal Order of the Crown and Law is symbolized by a cross, representing the kingdom’s sovereignty, with elements of the scales of justice to signify fairness and the law. The central motif of the Grand Cross features a finely crafted crown and scales of justice, symbolizing the balance between authority and justice. The Commander’s Cross and Knight’s Cross both reflect this design, with the scale of justice in the center of the cross, emphasizing the central importance of equity in the Kingdom’s governance.The Medal of the Order displays a crown and scales of justice, capturing the essence of duty and the royal obligation to uphold the law.
Conclusion:
The Order of the Crown and Law stands as a beacon of justice, equity, and fairness. It is a recognition of those who have devoted themselves to the legal profession and who have shaped the Kingdom of Poland’s legal landscape, ensuring that justice is served and that the rule of law remains strong. The Order reminds all that the Kingdom’s power is not only derived from the Crown, but also from the principles of justice and law that protect and serve its people.Given under Our hand and seal, at the Royal Palace of Warsaw, this day of May, in the Year of Our Lord 2006.
His Majesty, King Stanislaus Grabowski of Poland
His Excellency Count Władysław J. Orłowski, Royal Chancellor and Keeper of the Seal
