International Law
There is an area of law that regulates activities among states, within an international context. International law strives to establish and maintain agreeable relations among parties that relate on matters of international concern. This includes such areas as:- Treatment of aliens
- Conducting business overseas
- Negotiating licenses and contracts with foreign governments
- Dealing with international real estate transactions
- The rights of refugees
- International crimes
- Internet law and e-commerce
- Wills, trusts, and estates
Each country must abide by its own laws and treaties. The attorney who specializes in international law should be trained to abide by these. Some attorneys have particular areas of expertise, such as European law. You would be wise to choose an attorney with knowledge of the country with which you are dealing.
Private and Public International Law
The two main areas of international law are private and public.
Private law deals mainly with disputes among citizens or matters of conflict that involve more than one country. International law can affect travelers in such instances as an airline crash overseas or being arrested in foreign territories. In the first instance, the country is bound to act according to the international standards of justice, although complaints of violation can be filed from the country of residence. In the second situation, damages awarded due to airline accidents are limited, but can be disputed in cases of willful negligence. Claims against airlines are less restrictive and can be made from the point of origin, point of destination, the place of airline headquarters, or where the ticket was bought.
Public law relates mainly to issues between nations, countries, or individuals from foreign countries. International laws are created by organizations that employ international members, such as the United Nations. Subcategories of international public law can include issues of war, terrorism, human rights, environment, and international trade. Disputed areas of international public law are complex and require the services of a highly experienced attorney specializing in public international law.
International Law Organizations
It is helpful to have a basic understanding of key organizations involved in international law, and their functions:
- The United Nations – Created in 1945, the United Nations makes its purpose to maintain peace and security among nations.
- The International Organization Immunities Act – Laws that define the capacities of existing organizations involved in international law.
- The International Court of Justice – Located in the Netherlands, this is the principal place of judgment for the United Nations.
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