Dworkin's Theory of Law as Integrity: A Guide to Coherent Legal Reasoning

Let's say you're a fresh graduate from a law school and stepping into your first role as a practicing lawyer in a corporate law firm. During this transition, your ideas may get entangled with the numerous principles, regulations, and policies you encounter. As you try to make sense of the legal sphere, you might frequently find yourself asking: How can I interpret and apply the law in the most fitting manner? For this, consider invoking Dworkin's theory of law as integrity to navigate the labyrinth of legal decision-making.

What is Dworkin's Theory of Law as Integrity?

Pioneered by noted jurist and scholar Ronald Dworkin, the theory of law as integrity proposes that law isn't merely a system of rules. Instead, it's a complex system made of principles, policies, and rules, all interconnected. It posits that judges and lawyers should interpret and apply the law with integrity, keeping in mind the overall coherence and fairness of the legal system.

Why is Dworkin's Theory Important?

• Consistency: The approach encourages a consistent application of the law, which fosters a more predictable legal system.
• Coherence: It guides the interpretation of the past legal decisions in harmony with the principles of justice.
• Fairness: The theory upholds that the law should be just and respectful of the rights of all individuals.

How to Apply Dworkin's Theory in Legal Reasoning

1. Understand the Legal Landscape: Probe the principles, policies, and rules within a given legal circumstance.
2. Interpret with Integrity: Interpret the laws considering their moral objectives and the principles they aim to uphold.
3. Adhere to Precedents: Examine past judgements and view them as part of a larger moral story rather than isolated decisions.
4. Constructive Interpretation: Interpret laws constructively, aligning them to serve the purpose of advancing overall justice.
5. Justify the Choice: Offer a robust justification why your legal choice best fits and furthers the law's purpose.

Applying Dworkin's Theory in Your Role as a Corporate Lawyer

• Case Analysis: Start with understanding the principles, policies, and rules pertinent to your case and mentally map their relationships.
• Deductive Reasoning: Applying Dworkin's theory, interpret the laws with an eye towards coherence, justice, and respect for individual rights.
• Precision and Clarity: While forming arguments, ensure they align with precedents and moral implications outlined by the law.
• Constructive Interpretation: Aim to interpret laws in the most fair and constructive way to uphold integrity.
• Justification: Prepare compelling justifications to back your legal arguments and decisions.

Conclusion

Using Dworkin's theory of law as integrity, you can harmonize your legal reasoning with the broader moral and ethical framework of the law, ensuring a fair and just interpretation of the law. This approach brings a sense of coherence to the seemingly chaotic world of law and serves as a robust guiding light for legal practitioners, especially those just starting out.