First amendment jurisprudence

Definition

The body of law and legal principles that govern the interpretation and application of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition. It involves analyzing and balancing various factors to determine the extent of protection afforded to different types of expression.

Related terms

Freedom of Speech: The constitutional right to express one's ideas, opinions, beliefs, or artistic creations without government censorship or punishment.

Constitutional Law: The body of law derived from the United States Constitution that outlines the powers and limitations of the government.

Balancing Test: A method used by courts to weigh competing interests or rights in order to reach a decision on a particular issue. In First Amendment jurisprudence, this test is often used to determine if restrictions on certain types of speech are justified.