Publiekrecht

Public law is distinguished from private law by virtue of the unequal relationship between the government and the citizen. In this context, the government acts as an authority vested with public powers, while the citizen is subject to those powers.

Public law safeguards the exercise of governmental power within the limits of the law and affords citizens legal protection against governmental acts. This is achieved, inter alia, through the principles of proper administration and the availability of objection and appeal procedures.

In practice, public law is relevant to permit applications, enforcement actions by administrative bodies, and criminal prosecutions. Law firms such as Arslan & Arslan regularly advise clients on their rights and obligations in proceedings against the government.