In English law. A court sometimes appointed by the crown to ascertain whether it be proper to resort to extreme measures against a person charged before a court-martial. In American law. A court constituted by authority of the articles of war, invested with the power to examine into the nature of any. transaction, accusation, or imputation against any officer or soldier. The said court, shall consist of one or more officers, not exceeding three, and a judge advocate, or other, suitable person, as a recorder, to reduce the proceedings and evidence to writing; all of whom shall be sworn to the performance of their duty.