what is a constitutional lawyer

by Dr. Dee Kuvalis 9 min read

A constitutional lawyer or constitutional attorney deals mainly with the interpretation and implementation of the rights, rules, and amendments outlined in the United States Constitution. Constitutional law is often applied to cases that are argued in federal courts, including the Supreme Court.

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How to become a constitutional lawyer?

Jul 25, 2009 · A constitutional lawyer or constitutional attorney deals mainly with the interpretation and implementation of the rights, rules, and amendments outlined in the United States Constitution. Constitutional law is often applied to cases that are argued in federal courts, including the Supreme Court. Like other attorneys, constitutional lawyers can work as solo …

What exactly does constitution lawyer do?

A constitutional lawyer is not a formal title and was not a status created by the Constitution. It is simply an attorney who specializes primarily in constitutional law. Generally speaking when the term “constitutional law “is used, it refers to federal constitutional law. Constitutional law is not to be confused with civil rights law.

Do I need a constitutional lawyer?

Constitutional law attorneys defend the U.S. Constitution and the rights and freedoms of U.S. citizens. That includes arguing that a law adopted by a state legislature or Congress is unconstitutional or constitutional. Attorneys practicing in constitutional law deal with disputes stemming from the articles of the constitution and the interpretations of the Bill of Rights …

Who should decide whether a law is constitutional?

Constitutional Law: An Overview. The broad topic of constitutional law deals with the interpretation and implementation of the United States Constitution. As the Constitution is the foundation of the United States, constitutional law deals with some of the fundamental relationships within our society. This includes relationships among the states, the states and …

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What makes a constitutional lawyer?

Constitutional lawyers handle cases that involve the interpretation of laws as enshrined in the US constitution. Attorneys often argue cases of this nature in federal courts, though some make their way to the Supreme Court. Such cases may involve issues such as rights, equal protection, and privacy.

What exactly is constitutional law?

Constitutional Law refers to rights carved out in the federal and state constitutions. The majority of this body of law has developed from state and federal supreme court rulings, which interpret their respective constitutions and ensure that the laws passed by the legislature do not violate constitutional limits.

Is constitutional law well paid?

Political Lawyer Salary and Outlook Many constitutional lawyers work in state and federal government where salaries annually averaged ​$97,440​ and ​$146,560​ respectively. The highest paid lawyers in the country work in Washington, D.C. where salaries averaged ​$197,100​ per year.

What are some examples of constitutional law?

Constitutional law is most commonly associated with certain fundamental rights, such as: Equal protection; The right to bear arms; Freedom of religion; and....These rights include, but are not limited to:The right to travel across state lines;The right to marry;The right to raise children; and.Privacy rights.Jul 26, 2021

What kind of law is constitutional law?

Constitutional law is a body of law which defines the role, powers, and structure of different entities within a state, namely, the executive, the parliament or legislature, and the judiciary; as well as the basic rights of citizens and, in federal countries such as the United States and Canada, the relationship ...

Is constitutional law civil or criminal?

The sources of civil law in the United States are the United States Constitution, federal and state statutes, judicial opinions, case law, and administrative regulations. The U.S. Supreme court, along with the state courts, plays an integral part in defining and enforcing civil law.

What type of lawyer makes the most?

Types Of Lawyers That Make The Most MoneyMedical Lawyers – Average $138,431. Medical lawyers make one of the highest median wages in the legal field. ... Intellectual Property Attorneys – Average $128,913. ... Trial Attorneys – Average $97,158. ... Tax Attorneys – Average $101,204. ... Corporate Lawyers – $116,361.Dec 18, 2020

Which lawyers earn the most?

10 Types of Lawyers That Make The Most Money1: Immigration Lawyer. ... 2: Civil Rights Lawyer. ... 3: Family and Divorce Lawyers. ... 4: Personal Injury. ... 5: Criminal Defense Lawyers. ... 6: Corporate Lawyers. ... 7: Bankruptcy Lawyers. ... 8: Real Estate Lawyers.More items...

DO YOU NEED A levels to be a lawyer?

A levels – To get on to a law degree you will usually require a minimum of two A levels, with three A levels and A grades needed for the most popular courses. Entry requirements range from BCC to AAA, with the universities and colleges most commonly asking for ABB.

How do you know if a law is constitutional?

The judicial branch interprets laws and determines if a law is unconstitutional. The judicial branch includes the U.S. Supreme Court and lower federal courts.

Why is constitutional law so important?

Generally, constitutional law is the foundation of all law in a specific jurisdiction. It establishes governmental authority and power, as well as limitations and grants of rights. The Constitution of the United States established a system of government and serves as the primary source of law.Apr 25, 2018

What are the advantages of constitutional law?

It protects the rights of individuals since those in power cannot easily change them. It is among the most stable law structure and is best suited for an emergency period in a country. For federal governments, a written constitution provides for the separation of central and federal power.Sep 3, 2021

What do lawyers need to know about constitutional law?

Lawyers practicing constitutional law must have a good grasp of the Constitution, laws, and amendments, including all the rulings of the Supreme Court that have set new legal precedents. Also, they have to be detail-oriented and know how to interact with clients.

What is the Constitutional Law?

Constitutional law is an area of law that deals with the interpretation, implementation, and amendment of the U.S. Constitution and the federal laws that govern the 50 states. It focuses on what the Constitution says, what specific laws mean, and what limitations exist.

Why do lawyers go to court?

Because social and political issues keep changing or developing, lawyers in this field often go to court to seek clarification or guidance on the meaning, interpretation, and implementation of the Constitution. Some of the famous constitutional law cases deal with: Freedom of speech. The right to vote.

Why do people seek out lawyers?

Because of this, people seek out lawyers often to offer representation in civil rights cases or public policy. Since lawyers deal with the how and what of the Constitution, they ought to be familiar with constitutional law, including the Bill of Rights, equal protection under the law, and other clauses.

What is the Supreme Court responsible for?

Because of the far-reaching impacts of the Constitution, the Supreme Court is responsible for providing rules, which are often binding, on cases that question the substance and interpretation of laws.

What do constitutional law students learn?

Students of constitutional law learn how to interpret the Constitution and delineate the relationships between the legislative, judicial, and executive branches of government. Most important, they explore the rights of individuals as enshrined in the Constitution, and how such rights relate to both federal and state governments.

What is the power of the Supreme Court?

It’s the power vested in the U.S. Supreme Court to determine whether a law or legislation or executive order by the government is constitutional. The underlying idea is that the Constitution is the supreme law of the land. The Supreme Court has the final authority of matters relating to the Constitution and requires the courts to rule ...

What is the job of a constitutional lawyer?

Becoming a Constitutional Lawyer. Attorneys who practice constitutional law might work at a private law firm, a non-profit advocacy group or for the federal government. Their work might include intake for determining which cases to take, drafting initial paperwork and preparing detailed research briefs. Their work may include going to court ...

Why are constitutional laws important?

Some of the most influential changes in American society happen because constitutional lawyers bring cases to the court. For lawyers who enjoy politics, constitutional law is a great way to have a powerful impact on society. For example, the 1954 case Brown v.

Which branch of government makes the law?

The constitution gives power to the federal government in three branches: the legislative branch that makes the law, the executive branch that carries out the law and makes treaties and the judicial branch that interprets the law. The constitution also defines the relationship between the states and the federal government.

What do leaders decide?

Every government in the world must decide how it’s going to function. Leaders must decide if the country is going to have a constitution. Not all countries have one. If a country chooses to govern by constitution, they must decide what to put in their constitution and how to provide for judicial review. The practice of constitutional law might ...

Which case legalized same sex marriage?

Another recent, significant constitutional law case is the Burwell v. Hobby Lobby case.

Why did the founders ratify the Constitution?

The founders ratified the United States Constitution in 1787. The constitution was the result of a debate about the appropriate role of government in a free society. Some thought that the predecessor Articles of Confederation didn’t give the federal government enough power to do business.

What is due process?

Due process is the idea that the government can’t take someone’s liberty or property without a fair judicial procedure. A person accused of a crime has the right to have reasonable notice of the charges against them and an opportunity to be heard in the matter. They have the right to a fair judge or jury in their case. They have the right to cross examine witnesses and the opportunity to have an attorney. Courts must keep records of proceedings and publicly state the reasons for their decisions. You also have the right to a fair process in civil matters.

What is constitutional law?

Constitutional law, as its name implies, is the area of law that deals with the interpretation of the United States Constitution. According to the Supreme Court's website, since the United States possesses a living, and thus adaptable, constitution, it is often subjected to intense scrutiny ( www.supremecourt.gov ).

What are some alternatives to being a lawyer?

There are a number of alternative career fields for lawyers. Judges or hearing officers are alternatives that require a doctoral degree. Most judges are appointed by politicians or elected by the public. Mediators and arbitrators work to solve problems between groups or people and keep them out of court.

What do lawyers need to know?

Lawyers typically need to be able to do research, interpret laws and rulings, and present this information in written reports or in person. University instructors prepare lesson plans and deliver lessons. They need to have good communication skills to help students understand the complexities and subtleties of the law.

What is the Supreme Court?

As a result, the Supreme Court provides rulings, rather than opinions, on unique cases that challenge both the letter and the interpretation of the law. The Supreme Court has the combined ability and authority to enact new legislation when human rights granted by the constitution are violated.

What degree do you need to be a mediator?

Mediators and arbitrators work to solve problems between groups or people and keep them out of court. These positions require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree. Similar careers paths to paralegals or legal assistants include working as an administrative assistant or within the occupational health field.

Constitutional Law

United States constitutional law is the foundation of American society. The federal and state constitutions define the relationship between the branches of government and impact every aspect of life and commerce. From constitutional law we derive our rights and freedoms as citizens and the boundaries of government.

Should I Hire a Constitutional Law Attorney?

If you have an issue that involves your constitutional rights, you will need an attorney who practices in this highly complex and challenging area of law.

What Do Constitutional Law Attorneys Do?

Constitutional law attorneys defend the U.S. Constitution and the rights and freedoms of U.S. citizens.

What is constitutional law?

The broad topic of constitutional law deals with the interpretation and implementation of the United States Constitution. As the Constitution is the foundation of the United States, constitutional law deals with some of the fundamental relationships within our society. This includes relationships among the states, the states and the federal government, the three branches (executive, legislative, judicial) of the federal government, and the rights of the individual in relation to both federal and state government. The area of judicial review is an important subject within Constitutional Law. The Supreme Court has played a crucial role in interpreting the Constitution. Consequently, study of Constitutional Law focuses heavily on Supreme Court rulings.

Which article of the Constitution enumerates the powers of Congress?

Article I establishes the House of Representatives and the Senate. See U.S. Const. art. I. Section 8 enumerates the powers of Congress. See U.S. Const. art. I., § 8.

What is the role of the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court has played a crucial role in interpreting the Constitution. Consequently, study of Constitutional Law focuses heavily on Supreme Court rulings. While the topic also covers the interpretation and implementation of state constitutions, without qualification it is usually understood as referring to the Federal Constitution.

What is the Senate Judiciary Committee?

International Association of Constitutional Law . USConstitution.net. Senate Judiciary Committee (includes information from Subcommittee on Constitution, Federalism, and Property Rights) House Judiciary Committee (includes information from Subcommittee on the Constitution) Slate, "The Constitution: The Juicy Bits".

What is the purpose of the Commerce Clause?

art. I., § 8. Congress has specifically used its power to regulate commerce (the commerce clause) with foreign nations and among the states to enact broad and powerful legislation throughout the nation.

Which article of the Constitution establishes the executive branch?

Article II of the Constitution establishes the presidency and the executive branch of government. The powers of the President are not as clearly enumerated as those of the Congress. He is vested with the "executive" power by section 1. See U.S. Const. art. II, § 1.

What is the supremacy clause?

This is commonly referred to as the Supremacy Clause. Furthermore, all federal, state, and local officials must take an oath to support the Constitution. This means that state governments and officials cannot take actions or pass laws that interfere with the Constitution, laws passed by Congress, or treaties.

What are the elements of constitutional law?

Common elements of constitutional law include the provision and assurance of human rights and civil liberties, legislative powers, the division of governmental powers, and assurance of protection under the rule of law.

What is the principle of the rule of law?

The constitutions of virtually all nations establish a “rule of law,” the principle under which all persons, institutions, and entities within the country—including the government itself—are held equally accountable to the laws enacted by the central government. Constitutional law strives to ensure that these laws are:

What is the foundation of all other procedural and substantive laws applied within the country?

By establishing the authority of the government, as well as the rights of the people, constitutional law is the foundation of all other procedural and substantive laws applied within the country.

Which branch of government creates laws?

The first article of the Constitution creates a framework of rules by which the legislative branch creates laws, which must be approved by the President of the United States as head of the executive branch before taking effect. The U.S. Supreme Court resolves disputes involving constitutional issues.

Who is Robert Longley?

Robert Longley is a U.S. government and history expert with over 30 years of experience in municipal government. He has written for ThoughtCo since 1997. Constitutional law is a body of law based on a ratified constitution or similar formative charter dealing with the fundamental principles by which a government exercises its authority.

What are the rights and freedoms of individuals?

As essential elements of constitutional law, human rights and civil liberties protect the rights and freedoms of individuals against the actions of the government. Human rights refer to the natural rights and freedoms of all people no matter where they live, such as freedom from religious persecution or enslavement. Civil liberties are the rights and freedoms specifically granted to individuals by a constitution, such as the right to trial by jury or protection from unreasonable search and seizure by the police.

What are the branches of the federal government?

As one of the best-recognized examples of constitutional law, the United States Constitution establishes three branches of the federal government, executive, legislative, and judicial, defines the federal government’s relationship with the states, and sets forth the rights of the people.

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Major Areas of Constitutional Law

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Constitutional law is broad and cuts across many areas of practice. Some of the major principles, clauses, and elements include:
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Education and Training For Constitutional Lawyers

  • As with other legal professions, education and training are at the heart of becoming a constitutional lawyer in the United States. A typical path for an aspiring lawyer looks like this: Step 1: Get a bachelor’s degree:Anyone who aspires to become a constitutional lawyer must complete first a bachelor’s degree in Law, or History, or Political Science, or any major that involves critica…
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What Do Constitutional Lawyers do?

  • Constitutional lawyers handle cases that involve the interpretation of laws as enshrined in the U.S. constitution. Attorneys often argue cases of this nature in the federal courts, though some make their way to the Supreme Court. Such cases may involve many issues such as rights, equal protection, and privacy. As a lawyer, you will be at the heart of the legal system, and your cases …
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Working as A Constitutional Lawyer

  • Once you graduate and obtain a state license, you can start practicing at a private law firm, work with advocacy groups, or find employment with federal agencies. Your work might include drafting paperwork, preparing research briefs, and evaluating cases. From time to time, you also will attend court for hearings or to argue your case. Some lawyers practice constitutional law onl…
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Top Skills to Become A Constitutional Lawyer

  • Lawyers practicing constitutional law must have a good grasp of the Constitution, laws, and amendments, including all the rulings of the Supreme Court that have set new legal precedents. Also, they have to be detail-oriented and know how to interact with clients. Practicing constitutional law is a job that involves talking in front of groups, your clients, jury members, an…
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Why Become A Constitutional Lawyer?

  • Studying constitutional law and practicing as an attorney puts you in a pole position to impact society at large. Some of the most far-reaching legal changes in the country arise from the cases these lawyers bring before the Supreme Court. For instance, the Brown vs. Board of Education case of 1954 determined that schools that segregate students along racial lines violate the equa…
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Salary and Career Outlook For Lawyers

  • The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics estimates that the demand for constitutional lawyers is expected to grow by 6 percent between 2018 and 2028. It’s as fast as the average profession in most industries. The bureau predicts that the government will continue being the major employer for attorneys in this field. However, budget cuts could slow the uptake of lawyers. Experienced a…
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Advancing Your Career as A Constitutional Lawyer

  • Chances are you’ll start as an intern or a junior associate working under more skilled constitutional lawyers or a clerk in a local court. After some years of practice, you’ll gain significant experience. You can step out and practice on your own or get into a partnership with another lawyer. Depending on how aggressive you are, you can even rise to the position of a jud…
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The U.S. Constitution

  • The founders ratified the United States Constitution in 1787. The constitution was the result of a debate about the appropriate role of government in a free society. Some thought that the predecessor Articles of Confederation didn’t give the federal government enough power to do business. The U.S. constitution was ultimately a compromisebetween many competing interest…
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Major Areas of The Constitution and Its Interpretation

  • Due Process
    Due process is the idea that the government can’t take someone’s liberty or property without a fair judicial procedure. A person accused of a crime has the right to have reasonable notice of the charges against them and an opportunity to be heard in the matter. They have the right to a fair j…
  • Freedom of Speech
    The government can’t unduly limit the right of the peopleto speak, assemble and practice religion. The government can make only limited time and place restrictions on speech. If they make restrictions, they must apply the restrictions uniformly to everyone. Constitutional lawyers contin…
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Becoming A Constitutional Lawyer

  • Attorneys who practice constitutional law might work at a private law firm, a non-profit advocacy group or for the federal government. Their work might include intake for determining which cases to take, drafting initial paperwork and preparing detailed research briefs. Their work may include going to court for oral arguments and other hearings. Some attorneys become constitutional la…
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Constitutional Law Outside The United States

  • Every government in the world must decide how it’s going to function. Leaders must decide if the country is going to have a constitution. Not all countries have one. If a country chooses to govern by constitution, they must decide what to put in their constitution and how to provide for judicial review. The practice of constitutional law might include working with developing countries to det…
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Why Become A Constitutional Lawyer?

  • Constitutional law has the potential to profoundly impact American society in an instant. Some of the most influential changes in American society happen because constitutional lawyers bring cases to the court. For lawyers who enjoy politics, constitutional law is a great way to have a powerful impact on society. For example, the 1954 case Brown v. Board of Education determine…
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Seeing The Big Picture

  • Constitutional law is the law that governs the very framework of society. It aims to answer the questions of what laws and freedoms apply to all individuals and how those freedoms should be applied. Constitutional law and those who practice it have a profound impact on society.
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What Is Constitutional Law?

  • Constitutional law, as its name implies, is the area of law that deals with the interpretation of the United States Constitution. According to the Supreme Court's website, since the United States possesses a living, and thus adaptable, constitution, it is often subjected to intense scrutiny (www.supremecourt.gov). As a result, the Supreme Court provides rulings, rather than opinions, …
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What Types of Positions Are available?

  • Since constitutional law is a multifaceted field, you may want to consider the types of activities you would like to perform. Other points to consider include your current education level and whether or not you'd be interested in seeking additional degrees, licenses or certifications. You may want to become a paralegal, for example, if you are interested in legal issues but don't wan…
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What Are Some Specific positions?

  • If you're interested in paralegal work, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that paralegals are becoming more specialized (www.bls.gov). You might work in a corporate, private or government office that specializes in immigration or labor law. If you're interested in becoming an attorney, you may want to explore specializing in constitutional law as it relates to specific in…
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What Are Some Related Alternative Careers?

  • There are a number of alternative career fields for lawyers. Judges or hearing officers are alternatives that require a doctoral degree. Most judges are appointed by politicians or elected by the public. Mediators and arbitrators work to solve problems between groups or people and keep them out of court. These positions require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree. Similar career…
See more on learn.org

Constitutional Law Definition

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By establishing the authority of the government, as well as the rights of the people, constitutional law is the foundation of all other procedural and substantivelaws applied within the country. In most countries, constitutional law is derived from a written document, like the U.S. Constitution, adopted as an integral part of the cou…
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Constitutional Law in The United States

  • As one of the best-recognized examples of constitutional law, the United States Constitution establishes three branches of the federal government, executive, legislative, and judicial, defines the federal government’s relationship with the states, and sets forth the rights of the people. The amendments to the Constitution, including those of the Bill of Rights, list the rights possessed s…
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Sources and Further Reference

  1. “Constitutional Law.”Legal Information Institute. Cornell Law School.
  2. “Overview—Rule of Law.”United States Courts
  3. “Primary Documents in American History: Marbury v. Madison.”U.S. Library of Congress
  4. Tate, C. Neal. “Judicial Review.”Encyclopedia Britannica
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