publiclaw

Public law is the branch of law that governs the relationship between individuals and the state, and the structure and operation of the government itself. It concerns how public authorities exercise power, make and enforce rules, and are held accountable under the law. By contrast, private law regulates relationships between private persons and entities, such as contracts, torts, property, and family matters.

Typical areas of public law include constitutional law, which sets the framework for government powers, fundamental rights, and the distribution of authority among branches of government; administrative law, which governs the actions and procedures of public agencies and the review of administrative decisions; and criminal law, which defines offenses and penalties and is pursued by the state. Tax law, regulation of markets, and other forms of public regulation are commonly treated as public law as well.

Public law emphasizes checks and balances, due process, and the rule of law. Courts review the legality of executive actions, legislation, and regulatory policies, and can remedy breaches of rights or procedural flaws. Public law also interacts with international law, where international agreements and customary norms affect domestic government action.

Understanding public law requires consideration of institutional design—constitutional arrangements, courts, and administrative agencies—and of the balance between sovereign authority and individual rights within a jurisdiction.