Public Law degrees teach legal aspects connected to the interaction between individuals and the three branches of a state: executive, legislative, an...
Public Law degrees teach legal aspects connected to the interaction between individuals and the three branches of a state: executive, legislative, and judiciary. A big part of studying Public Law at top law schools worldwide is becoming familiar with Constitutional Law, but also Administrative, Tax, and Criminal Law. Popular Public Law careers include working as lawyers or solicitors in the public legal system.
What is an educational program in Public Law?
A degree in public law tackles the structure of the legal system of the nation or state and it includes several methods of training students in handling lawsuits and legal cases. This degree program includes subjects that discuss the state's judiciary system, constitutional law and rights, the supreme court, and mock trials. For public law students, there are three main courses that they should take as foundational courses. They must take a course in Administrative Law which discusses the constitutional status of agencies and the regulatory processes. They should also take a course in Federal Courts that involves the different types of courts in the state's federal system and their hierarchy and relationship to other branches of the federal system. Lastly, they must complete a course in Legislation that teaches all the important aspects of making laws and interpretation of the laws in the constitution of the nation. Graduates of this degree can pursue a career in government law-making sectors, criminal justice, constitutional litigation, prosecution, and legal services in law firms.
What does an educational program in Public Law cover?
Public Law is a broad discipline that includes many specialisations, such as Tax Law, Constitutional Law, Administrative Law, and Criminal Law. Public Law ensures that public bodies — like the local government, for example — act lawfully and fairly, without breaching the rights of other authorities or citizens. When that happens, the plaintiff can use complaints procedures, appeal to a tribunal, or ask a different public body to review the initial decision. Because it is a broad discipline, and you can choose from different Public Law branches, there is no standard or universally accepted curriculum. Still, you can expect to take classes in Legal Systems, Land Law, EU Law, Equity and Trusts, Contract and Tort Law, Legal Reasoning, International Law, Legal Skills, Public Policy, Business Law, etc.
What types of jobs are available for Public Law graduates?
With a strong foundation of inspired course offerings, clinics, career planning support, and service opportunities, you'll be prepared for success in public interest, government, and public policy legal careers, including
Government attorney (federal, state, local)
Career judicial law clerk
Law school professor
Legal Aid attorney
Elected official or staff for elected official
College administrator
Court administrator
Policy analyst
Nonprofit director
Lobbyist
Attorney for public interest organization