National law, also referred to as domestic law, pertains to a particular nation or state. While entities and professionals use international law for situations that include relationships among multiple countries, national laws are specific to counties and states within a nation. This article explores the different aspects of national law, including how it differs from international law and how it can impact future career choices for aspiring law professionals.

The executive power of the United States shall be vested in one President, and in his Cabinet, and in such Officers, as the Congress may from time to time ordain and establish. The judicial power of the United States, shall be vested in one supreme Court, and in such inferior Courts as the Congress may from time to time ordain, and establish. The Judges, both of the supreme Court and of the inferior Courts, shall hold their Offices during good Behaviour, and shall receive for their Services, a Compensation, which shall not be diminished during their Continuance in Office.

The national security law in Hong Kong is just one example of a government using the concept of “national security” to repress political opposition and limit freedom of expression. It also contravenes international human rights standards that stipulate that peacefully expressing one’s opinions about political systems does not constitute a threat to national security. The law gives the Chinese central and Hong Kong governments broad new powers to oversee schools, social organizations and media in Hong Kong, while imposing heavy penalties on people who criticize the political system.