John Macdonell (judge)

Sir John Macdonell, KCB, FBA (1 August 1846 – 18 March 1921) was a British barrister, legal scholar, and Master of the Supreme Court.

Born in Aberdeen, Scotland, Macdonell was educated at the University of Aberdeen and the University of Leipzig. He was called to the Bar at the Middle Temple in 1873 and practiced law for many years, specializing in commercial law.

Macdonell was appointed Master of the Supreme Court in 1889, a position he held until his retirement in 1920. As Master, he was responsible for the management of the court's business and the allocation of cases. He was known for his efficiency and his commitment to judicial reform.

Beyond his legal practice and judicial duties, Macdonell was a prolific writer and scholar. He authored several books on legal and economic subjects, including "The Law of Master and Servant" (1883), "A Survey of Political Economy" (1871), and "Historical Trials" (1927, posthumously). He also contributed extensively to legal journals and encyclopedias. His work often reflected a strong interest in the intersection of law, economics, and social issues.

Macdonell was knighted in 1903 and made a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB) in 1914. He was also a Fellow of the British Academy (FBA). He died in London in 1921.