Dr. Paul Du Plessis

Biography

Paul J. du Plessis holds the Chair of Roman Law at the University of Edinburgh, where he is a legal historian specializing in the intricate links between law, society, and history. His research focuses primarily on the doctrinal and historical aspects of Roman law, especially in relation to property obligations and family law. Du Plessis explores how Roman legal principles have significantly influenced contemporary European law, particularly the ius commune of the late Middle Ages. He critically examines established narratives in European legal history, particularly the fundamental structures and doctrines that challenge these narratives. As an established author, he has published six books with major publishers such as Oxford University Press and Bloomsbury and has edited eight volumes. His research has received funding from national and international organizations, highlighting his academic esteem, including his election to the Senatus Academicus in 2020 and as Professor Extraordinarius at the University of the North West in 2021.

Research Interests

Experience