public-interest law

American  

noun

1. a branch of law that often utilizes class-action suits to protect the interest of a large group or of the public at large, as in matters relating to racial discrimination, air pollution, etc.

---

Etymology

Origin of public-interest law

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Think of law schools that might otherwise emphasize public-interest law but instead chase students bound for lucrative firms because the high salaries and prestige boost the schools’ rankings.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

He was arrested, jailed for three days and was not allowed to make a phone call or see an attorney, according to the Institute for Justice, a public-interest law firm that is representing him.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 26, 2025

The lawyers who represent the New Jersey-based fishermen, are working pro bono and belong to a public-interest law firm, Cause of Action, that discloses no donors and reports having no employees.

From New York Times • Jan. 16, 2024

He practiced public-interest law in the Boston area before embarking on a six-month journey through Tanzania.

From Washington Post • Mar. 28, 2023

Attorneys for ADF International, the global branch of Alliance Defending Freedom, a public-interest law firm, said Prosecutor General Raija Toiviainen’s office informed a local attorney on the case of the plan to file an appeal.

From Washington Times • Apr. 7, 2022