Boutique law firms specialize in specific areas of law and offer exemplary service. They vary in size and can be more expensive than general law firms, but offer expertise in niche areas. Different firms offer different services and it’s important to ask around for recommendations and fees. A boutique law firm is a law firm […]
Gun laws regulate the use, sale, and ownership of firearms, with varying restrictions and requirements depending on the country or jurisdiction. The debate on gun control often centers on public safety. Some laws require permits or background checks, while others allow concealed carry. Self-defense is not always a legally recognized reason for owning a gun. […]
Corporate law deals with how laws relate to businesses, corporations, shareholders, and entities involved in commerce. It originated from medieval trade guilds and evolved into corporations as separate entities from their owners. Corporate lawyers engage in litigation between companies and against national governments, making it an increasingly complex field. Among the various specialties within the […]
A change in circumstances can cause a court to reevaluate decisions about alimony, child custody, or support. It can be good or bad and impact someone’s life. It can include changes in income, moving, or remarrying. The welfare of the child is the primary concern in custody arrangements, and convincing evidence is needed to change […]
A family law judge hears cases related to divorce, child custody, paternity, parental authority, and financial matters. They apply the law in their jurisdiction, preside over trials and hearings, and make fair decisions. They also act as an arbitrator, ensure court proceedings follow an acceptable order, and decide on the admissibility of evidence. They may […]
Law enforcement self-defense involves an officer acting in self-defense, resulting in injury or death of another person. Officers must follow the same self-defense restrictions as private citizens and use reasonable force. The officer must feel threatened and act appropriately to the situation. Reasonable force varies and is defined by the judge or jury, not the […]
Statutes are laws passed by legislative bodies, but may need interpretation by courts. Common law systems often require courts to interpret statutes using methods such as examining purpose and history, compliance with other laws, and canons of interpretation. Judges may also rely on ancient building codes. Canons include deference, textual, and substantive rules to guide […]
Diversion initiatives offer alternative ways to deal with certain offenders, such as juvenile and non-violent drug or alcohol offenders, through addiction treatment, community service, and victim compensation. Successful completion of the program can result in the elimination of charges, while failure can lead to reinstatement and increased charges. These programs often involve therapeutic and educational […]
State laws in countries with single states are separate from national laws and cover various legal areas. The US model allows states to govern independently, but federal laws may override state laws. Discrepancies can occur, such as with medical marijuana laws, and states may not honor each other’s laws. Countries with single states often have […]
Administrative law oversees government bodies responsible for administration, including councils, agencies, and commissions. These bodies have the power to create rules and regulations, grant licenses and permits, and issue orders to comply with certain laws. Judicial review procedures exist in most countries, allowing for review of administrative decisions. Examples of administrative bodies include the Equal […]
The Walker Act legitimized and regulated boxing as a sport in 1920, making New York the first state to do so. It provided a framework for official decisions, safety measures, and licensing requirements, paving the way for the sport’s success and popularity worldwide. The Walker Act is a landmark piece of legislation that legitimized and […]
Poverty law covers legislation and legal activities related to poverty, including welfare and legal aid. Poverty affects 42% of the world’s population, and poverty law can address issues such as education, healthcare, and crime. Poverty lawyers may work for the government or offer legal services to the poor. Poverty law is controversial, with arguments for […]
The Immigration and Nationality Act defines aliens as non-citizens residing in the US. Federal immigration laws determine the rights and obligations of aliens, including naturalization. Visas are granted based on the purpose and length of stay. The power to regulate immigration is reserved for Congress, and constitutional rights apply to all aliens, including undocumented ones. […]
Legal digests are used to research discrimination case law, listing court cases and opinions. Jurisprudence is made by judges and becomes precedents for other courts. Case reporters are numbered volumes of appellate court decisions, with opinions containing case captions, head notes, and relevant facts. Internet searches use specific keywords to find articles and summaries on […]
Criminal law enforces government-created laws, prosecutes violators, and assigns penalties for crimes. Civil law involves private individuals. Attorneys specialize in criminal law, and laws dictate investigations, judicial proceedings, and penalties. The term “penal” means “concerning punishment.” Criminal law is a term used to describe the enforcement of government-created laws, the prosecution of those who violate […]
Common law separation is when unmarried couples who have lived together decide to separate. Assets are divided based on what each person brought into the relationship, and common property is often divided equally. Child support is likely, but spousal support may not be awarded. Custody and support arrangements for children are usually worked out outside […]
Banking law regulates how banks operate, with most developed countries having a single regulator. In the US, banks are subject to both federal and state law, while banks in the EU are subject to both EU and national regulations. Objectives include protecting privacy, minimizing risk, and avoiding bank failure. Banks must hold certain cash deposits […]
Ignorance of the law is generally not a valid defense in legal systems, as laws are available to the public and seeking advice is possible. Exceptions include situations where a law changes or bad advice is given by officials. Ignorance of the facts can be a defense in some cases. Ignorance of the law is […]
Fashion law is a growing field that deals with intellectual property, copyright, and trademark issues, as well as international trade agreements, import/export laws, and customs regulations. Fashion attorneys represent clothing manufacturers, designers, artists, and models. The production and sale of counterfeit designer clothing is a major problem, and designers need legal advice on international agreements […]
Canon law is the internal legal system of some Christian sects, including the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches. It establishes rules and punishments for Church members and officiants, and has been adapted by different sects. Canon law does not apply to non-members, and some Christians push for reforms. Canon lawyers may represent individuals in […]
