Constitutional Law occupies a vast and complex segment of our jurisprudence. While its basis originates in the actual constitutional texts and amendments, it also includes a vast body of cases which attempt to interpret the words of state and federal constitutions. In constitutional law, perhaps more than in any other area of law, there has been an emphasis on the interpretation of the meaning of the original documents. Often, reading a constitution itself is only the very beginning of understanding the law. In the practice of constitutional law, it is essential to become acquainted with the varied ways courts interpret  consitutional provisions. The fact that constitutions are thought to be such important documents, and that the courts play such a key role in deciding what the documents say, has lead to significant litigation over what the Constitution's text means and what protections the various state and federal constitution provide to the citizens. Often times, the meaning of a constitutional provision hinges on the specific right at issue and the particularities of the court interpreting the constitutional provision.

Constitutional rights, often called civil rights, include, the right to free speech and of the press, to freely practice a religion, the right to be free from discrimination, the right to privacy, the right to travel freely, and the right to peacefully assemble and express opinions against the government. Most of the civil rights stem from the Bill of Rights. Consequently, most civil rights law is constitutional law. However, some civil rights are based on statutes enacted by Congress or the state legislature, rather than the state or federal constitution.

One of the most important concepts in constitutional law is that the rights granted in the constitution are not absolute. Many powers have limits placed upon them. Most of the rights granted in the constitution must be exercised responsibly or else they conflict with other rights. Most constitutional litigation is about defining the limits of powers granted in the constitution or balancing the rights of individuals whose rights are in conflict.

R|S is at the forefront of defending individual and business constitutional rights. The firm is widely regarded for its work in defending the rights of free speech, whether in the press or in person. The firm has successfully defended individual rights in both the civil and criminal arena, and has substantial experience at both the trial and appellate levels. As a long-time member of the First Amendment Lawyers Association, the firm has the knowledge and resources necessary to assist our clients in defending their constitutional and civil rights.