Õigusteadlane

Õigusteadlane is a person who studies law as a scholarly discipline, focusing on legal theory, jurisprudence, and the development of legal doctrine. In Estonian usage the term designates someone whose primary work is research and teaching, rather than legal practice.

A typical õigusteadlane conducts original legal research, writes peer‑reviewed articles and books, and teaches at universities. They supervise doctoral students, present at conferences, and contribute to the methodological and doctrinal foundations of various legal fields such as constitutional law, civil and criminal law, and international law. They may also provide expert analysis to government bodies, courts, or international organizations and participate in law reform processes.

Education and career: Most pursue a university degree in law and an advanced research degree, such as a PhD, after which they enter academic positions as lecturers, senior lecturers, or professors, often supported by research grants. Some õigusteadlased work in think tanks or research institutes outside traditional universities.

Overall, the role of an õigusteadlane is to advance legal knowledge, critically assess legal norms, and shape the understanding and application of law within society. The term emphasizes scholarship over practical advocacy, though scholars may engage with practitioners and policymakers.