Comparative law is the study of the similarities, differences and interactions between different kinds of law, legal systems and legal traditions, including the civil law and the common law, as well as various forms of non-state ("soft") governance (customary law, religious law, social norms, etc.)
These comparisons provide invaluable insights into the emergence and evolution of legal norms, their connection with culture and society and the diverse responses to similar social problems.
Our leading legal scholars approach comparative law from a wide range of theoretical perspectives and across various legal fields—from legal history to constitutional law—and from family law to commercial law.
Courses
Students here are exposed to comparative law inquiries across the curriculum, and may elect to take courses in comparative constitutional law, comparative criminal law, comparative contract law, transnational legal theory, Jewish law, Islamic law, Quebec civil law tradition and Indigenous legal cultures.
Students may also apply to study law abroad through exchange partnerships with universities in the UK, China, France and others.
Faculty
Role: Professor
Role: Professor
Role: University Professor
Role: Professor Emeritus
Role: Associate Professor
Role: Professor Emeritus
Role: Professor
Role: Associate Professor
Role: Professor and Chair in Law and Innovation
Role: Professor
Role: Professor Emerita
Publications
- Jan 1, 2019