Critical Legal Studies

/ˈkrɪtɪkəl ˈliːɡəl ˈstʌdiz/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A critical movement in legal scholarship that challenges the objectivity of law, asserting that law is intertwined with social, political, and economic power structures.
    Critical legal studies scholars argue that legal doctrines often serve to perpetuate social inequalities.

Commentary

Used primarily in academic contexts, this term denotes a school of thought rather than a formal legal doctrine; it is important to distinguish CLS from general legal theory in scholarship.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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Amicus Docs | Critical Legal Studies Definition