Mogens Clausen Torn was the bailiff (Herredsfoged) for the north
(Nørreherred). He was appointed bailiff (Birkefoged) for the judicial
of Hammershus fortress from 1714 to 1729; and was the bailiff
(Byfoged) for Hasle township 1718-1729. Later he became judge
(Birkedommer) for the Hammershus judicial. He was involved in several
personal court-cases, and received sentences in 1701 and 1731 for his
"oprørske virksomhed" (rebellious undertakings). He had three
daughters. Elisabeth Clausdatter's first husband, Henrich Nielsen,
was murdered on July 9, 1695. His brother Hans Nielsen was arrested
for the murder; he was convicted and hanged on July 28, 1696.
Elisabeth's guardian and lawyer during the trial was Mogens Clausen
Torn's brother Berild Clausen.