GOVERNMENT

Government Law

GOVERNMENT LAW

Government laws are those laws that are enacted and enforced by the federal government. The United States federal government is divided into three branches: the legislative branch, which consists of Congress; the executive branch, which consists of the President and the federal agencies; and the judicial branch, which consists of the federal courts.

The legislative branch is responsible for creating laws, the executive branch is responsible for enforcing laws, and the judicial branch is responsible for interpreting laws. The Constitution of the United States is the supreme law of the land, and all other laws must be consistent with the Constitution.

Government law also encompasses the rights of citizens against the government. The Bill of Rights, which consists of the first ten amendments to the Constitution, protects citizens from government overreach. These rights include freedom of speech, freedom of religion, the right to bear arms, the right to a fair trial, and the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures.

DEFINITION OF A "GOVERNMENT LAWYER"

The term "government lawyer" can mean two things. On one hand, it can refer to a lawyer who works for the government, such as a prosecutor, a public defender, or a lawyer who works for a government agency. On the other hand, it can refer to a lawyer who represents clients in matters involving the government, such as a lawyer who represents clients in administrative proceedings, appeals, or litigation against the government.

Some areas of government law that a private lawyer may handle include:

  • Constitutional law;
  • Administrative law;
  • Environmental law;
  • Zoning, planning, and land use laws;
  • Criminal law; and
  • Civil rights law.

WELL-KNOWN GOVERNMENT AGENCIES AND ADMINISTRATIONS

The federal government has many agencies and administrations that regulate various aspects of life in the United States. Some of the most well-known government agencies and administrations include:

  • The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA);
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA);
  • The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC);
  • The Internal Revenue Service (IRS);
  • The Social Security Administration (SSA);
  • The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI);
  • The Department of Homeland Security (DHS);
  • The Department of Justice (DOJ); and
  • The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

CONSTITUTIONAL LAW

Constitutional law is the body of law that governs the interpretation and implementation of the United States Constitution. Constitutional law issues can arise in a wide variety of contexts, including criminal cases, civil rights cases, and cases involving the relationship between the federal government and the states.

A government lawyer who specializes in constitutional law can help clients who believe their constitutional rights have been violated. This may include filing a lawsuit in federal court to challenge a law or government action that is unconstitutional, or defending against a claim that a law or government action is unconstitutional.

ENVIRONMENTAL LAW

Environmental law is the body of law that governs the relationship between people and the natural environment. Environmental laws regulate activities that can harm the environment, such as pollution, and provide remedies for those who have been harmed by environmental violations.

A government lawyer who specializes in environmental law can help clients who have been harmed by environmental violations, or who are facing enforcement action by the government for alleged environmental violations.

ZONING PLANNING AND LAND USE LAWS

Zoning, planning, and land use laws regulate how land can be used in a given area. These laws can affect a wide variety of activities, including building construction, business operations, and residential use. Common disputes involving zoning, planning, and land use laws include:

  • Disputes about whether a particular use of land is permitted under zoning regulations;
  • Disputes about the grant or denial of a variance or special use permit;
  • Disputes about the validity of a zoning ordinance;
  • Disputes about the impact of a proposed development on the surrounding area; and
  • Disputes about eminent domain and the taking of private property for public use.

CRIMINAL PROCEDURES AND PROTECTIONS

The Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution provides a number of protections to individuals who are accused of crimes. These protections include:

  • The right to a grand jury indictment for serious crimes;
  • The protection against double jeopardy, which prevents a person from being tried twice for the same crime;
  • The protection against self-incrimination, which prevents a person from being compelled to testify against themselves;
  • The right to due process of law, which requires the government to follow fair procedures when depriving a person of life, liberty, or property; and
  • The protection against the taking of private property without just compensation.

HOW CAN AN ATTORNEY HELP ME WITH MY PROBLEM WITH THE GOVERNMENT?

If you have a problem with the government, whether it involves a dispute with a government agency, a criminal charge, or a violation of your constitutional rights, it is important to consult with a government lawyer as soon as possible. A government lawyer can help you understand your rights and options, navigate the legal system, and represent you in any legal proceedings.

Call our office today at (833) 388-7044 or complete the convenient online contact form to set up a consultation.