hold court

verb3

1. •
   To preside in a formal manner over an official assembly of courtiers and others in which entertainment is presented or affairs of state are considered.

   • [T]his was one of the anterooms off the main throneroom in which the king was accustomed to hold court with his entire retinue. — 1919
2. •
   To serve as the principal discussant or center of attention in an informal gathering of friends, associates, etc.

   • She was the centre of a very brilliant group, a most beautiful woman holding court, as was only right and proper, among her admirers. — 1912
3. •
   To convene or preside over a trial or other legal proceeding in a court of law.

   • Bean held court in an outhouse, the prisoner seated on a bale of flint hides. Bean was not only judge but prosecutor, as well as counsel for the defense. — 1906