International Law is a group of laws, rules, or principles that are based on custom, treaties, or legislation and that control or affect the duties and rights of sovereign nations in relation to each other.

The highest judicial authority of international law is the International Court of Justice and the administrative authority is the United Nations.

What is the International Court of Justice?

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. Its seat is at the Peace Palace in The Hague (Netherlands). It began work in 1946, when it replaced the Permanent Court of International Justice which had functioned in the Peace Palace since 1922. It operates under a Statute largely similar to that of its predecessor, which is an integral part of the Charter of the United Nations.

The Court has a dual role: to settle in accordance with international law the legal disputes submitted to it by States, and to give advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by duly authorized international organs and agencies.

What is the Charter of the United Nations?

The Charter of the United Nations was signed on 26 June 1945, in San Francisco, at the conclusion of the United Nations Conference on International Organization, and came into force on 24 October 1945. The Statute of the International Court of Justice is an integral part of the Charter.

The following excerpt from the Charter's Preamble best describes its purpose:

WE THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED NATIONS DETERMINED to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime has brought untold sorrow to mankind, and to reaffirm With in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women, and of nations large and small, and to establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained, and to promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom...

What is the United Nations?

The United Nations (UN), the most influential among international organizations, was created on June 26, 1945. The purpose of the United Nations is to maintain peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, achieve international cooperation in solving international problems, and to be a center for harmonizing the actions of the nations and attaining their common ends. The Charter of the United Nations has been adhered to by virtually all states.

Should I hire a lawyer?

Whether or not you are currently facing a legal situation, retaining an international law attorney will always benefit you, especially if you do business with other countries. International law attorneys understand the procedural and substantive laws in different countries. For example, collecting on a claim or judgment can vary from country to country and having a lawyer who is well versed with that countries laws will help you collect your claim. An international law attorney can also be highly valuable in prosecuting and defending litigation and arbitration cases in courts and tribunals across the United States and around the world, should a legal issue arise. Use the State Lawyers Directory to find an international law attorney to best suit your needs and legal situation.