For example , the English dramatist Ben Jonson avoided hanging by pleading benefit of clergy in 1598 when charged with manslaughter .
In 1351 , under Edward III , this loophole was formalised in statute , and the benefit of clergy was officially extended to all who could read .
The English dramatist Ben Jonson avoided hanging by pleading benefit of clergy in 1598 when charged with manslaughter .
In 1351 , under Edward III , this loophole was formalised in statute , and the benefit of clergy was officially extended to all who could read .