Maurice Eustace (Lord Chancellor)

Maurice Eustace (c. 1590 – 22 June 1665) was an Irish lawyer, politician and judge who served as Lord Chancellor of Ireland. He was a prominent figure in Irish public life during the turbulent period of the English Civil War, the Interregnum, and the Restoration.

Eustace was born in Harristown, County Kildare, the son of John Eustace and Margaret Sarsfield, daughter of William Sarsfield. He trained as a lawyer and quickly rose to prominence in the legal profession. He was admitted to the King's Inns in 1609 and called to the Bar shortly thereafter.

Eustace was a Member of Parliament for County Kildare in the Irish Parliament. He initially supported the Royalist cause during the English Civil War, but later pragmatically accommodated the Cromwellian regime. He was appointed to the Cromwellian Council of State and served as a judge.

Following the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660, Eustace was pardoned for his involvement with the Cromwellian government. Despite his past associations, his legal abilities and experience were recognised, and he was appointed Lord Chancellor of Ireland in 1660, a position he held until his death.

As Lord Chancellor, Eustace presided over the Court of Chancery and played a key role in the legal administration of Ireland during the early years of the Restoration. He was regarded as a capable and conscientious judge, known for his integrity and fairness.

He married Helen Bysse, daughter of John Bysse, Chief Baron of the Irish Exchequer. They had several children, including William Eustace, who inherited his father’s estates. His daughter, Margaret, married Sir William Davys, Lord Chief Justice of Ireland. Maurice Eustace is remembered as a significant figure in Irish legal and political history, navigating a challenging period of transition with skill and adaptability. He died in 1665 and was buried in Castlemartin, County Kildare.