You’ve heard of antitrust laws, bankruptcy law, class action suits and your right to privacy.
But what about some of the lesser-known areas of law that are out there? Not only are there some pretty bizarre ones available, but also they might be fun areas to consider should you be thinking about a career in law—but don’t want to be one of the dozens of run-of-the-mill insurance lawyers in town!
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Bird Law.
Ever worry that your pet parakeet might get loose and be de-feathered by the psycho neighbor next door? Fear no more! According to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, it is unlawful to pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill or sell migratory birds. There are, however, obvious exceptions to this statute should you possess a waiver or permit. Most likely your neighbor does not have a hunting license, but double check before you let Polly wander the neighborhood freely.
Elder Law.
Concerned about how to legally handle your ninety-year-old mother’s will? Consult an attorney who deals with elder law. This is an area of law that pertains to all matters concerning senior citizens, including estate planning, Medicaid, and guardianship.
Started in 1965 with the Older American Act (OAA) under the direction of President Lyndon B. Johnson, which later led to the creation of the Administration on Aging (AOA), this is a growing area of law as the elderly population continues to increase.
Space Law.
Ever wonder what regulatory power has the final say up in space? Here’s a hint: it’s not Starfleet Command!
This area of law deals with all matters governing activities in outer space and was first established after the then Soviet Union launched the artificial satellite Sputnik into space in 1957. It too is a growing area of law as space exploration has increasingly developed over the years.
You might want to think again before haphazardly chopping down this year’s Christmas tree from the woodland area outside of town. According to this legal specialty area, there are actually a plethora of legal issues concerning forestry including timber taxation, timber trespass actions, and timber sales. This area of law usually pertains to owners of timberland areas, and is because timber is a natural resource.
Uneasy about whether or not your drinking water has undergone thorough inspection? Leave it to the water law lawyers! This area of law deals with all matters pertaining to water including ownership and control.
It is oftentimes a difficult area to control as water is a vital resource and governance is difficult because of geographic reasons and because of water’s mobility.
In the United States, water rights vary by region.
There are dozens of areas of law, but it’s sometimes easy to think that the only ones that exist are those criminal cases as depicted in Law and Order. Whether you’re a team of icbc lawyers in Vancouver looking to expand your legal aid scope, or an avid bird lover concerned about the legal rights of your feathered friend, there are many legal areas that you never knew existed—and they’re worth knowing, if only for your own knowledge.
Author Byline:
Annie Babbitt is a freelance writer whose interests include current events, political science and philosophy. Annie loves helping promote change and being an advocate for those in need.
