BYU's J. Reuben Clark Law School seeks to intertwine faith with legal study, offering students a unique approach to justice, mercy and professional ethics.
At BYU Law, faith is more than a personal belief; it is an integral part of legal education. This is unlike most law schools, in which legal principles are examined primarily through secular perspectives.
“We believe that following God’s laws are much more important than the laws of men,” Shima Baradaran Baughman, a professor at BYU Law, said. “We seek opportunities to integrate principles of the restored gospel into our scholarship.”
BYU Law, founded and supported by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasizes faith in its mission statement, which reads, "We are committed to the teachings of Jesus Christ and honor His many roles, including healer, mediator, counselor, peacemaker, advocate, lawgiver and judge. In striving to emulate His example, we seek to be and develop people of integrity who combine faith and intellect in lifelong service to God and neighbor."
One example of faith’s influence on BYU legal education is found in the study of criminal law. According to Baughman, mainstream legal theories often emphasize punishment and retribution, but a faith-based approach also considers principles of forgiveness and atonement.
“In criminal law, 'retributivism' is the prevailing punishment theory. It is missing principles of forgiveness and atonement that are integral to the gospel of Jesus Christ. I am incorporating these principles in my scholarship,” she said.
For many students, the integration of religious values into their studies strengthens their academic and professional goals. First-year law student Spencer Klopfer, who chose BYU Law after considering other top law schools, appreciates the emphasis on faith in the curriculum.
“We learn all things by the Spirit,” he said. “Thinking about how human law connects to God’s law gives us a broader perspective on how we can use the law to help others.”
Despite its religious foundation, BYU Law encourages discussions on controversial legal topics, even when they may challenge traditional beliefs. Baughman emphasized the importance of exploring all perspectives while staying true to religious convictions.
“There are many opportunities to consider both sides of an argument,” she said. “Sometimes one of those sides will align better with our gospel values.”
The law school also provides a space for students of different faith backgrounds to engage in legal discourse. Klopfer noted that non-LDS students at BYU Law can still benefit from the moral framework emphasized at the school.
“Any focus on good moral principles helps those who want to be ethical,” he said. “The discussions we have help us to all learn and be edified together.”
Looking beyond the classroom, BYU Law aims to prepare students to integrate faith into their legal careers. Whether in public interest law or corporate settings, graduates are encouraged to uphold the principles of justice and mercy.
“An important value of lawyers is realizing that Jesus Christ is our greatest advocate,” Baughman said. “To be a great lawyer, we need to learn how to be disciples of Christ first and then advocate for others.”
As the legal field continues to evolve, BYU Law stands as a unique institution that merges rigorous legal training with a commitment to faith. By balancing academic excellence with religious principles, the school shapes legal professionals who strive to serve both the law and their moral convictions.