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.

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Etymology

Origin of public-interest law

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

“While the fight continues at the appellate level, we remain confident that our clients’ constitutional rights will ultimately be vindicated,” said Paul Jonna, of the LiMandri & Jonna law firm, which is partnering with Thomas More Society, a public-interest law firm.

From Los Angeles Times

And in Winfield, Kan., a student-led effort to remove a chapter at Winfield High School prompted a letter from a public-interest law firm, warning the local school district that prohibiting a club based on its viewpoint would violate the 1st Amendment.

From Los Angeles Times

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

“This settlement has some strong accountability measures that should help ensure students get the resources they need,” said attorney Chelsea Kehrer of Morrison Foerster, which filed the suit in tandem with the public-interest law firm Public Counsel.

From Los Angeles Times

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