I consider only the ruler to be a significant position in terms of social standing in the feudal hierarchy. Ruler stands over Dukes. I consider the rest of the council to be between Dukes and lords.
I wonder how often you've told a judge that.
Although It depends on the circumstance and the realm setup, I consider power to be what makes the feudal hierarchy. Ruler>Judge>Duke>Marshal>Banker>Lord>Knight. Although I'm not really sure about the Marshal/General....still haven't seen a speck of war.
