AEI sponsors a wealth of research that examines the legal and constitutional aspects of current policy controversies.

The National Legal Center for the Public Interest merged into AEI, forming a new research division named the AEI Legal Center for the Public Interest (AEILC). The AEILC pursues an expanded program of research, publications, and conferences on legal and constitutional issues drawing on the traditions, interests, and people of both institutions. The AEILC is directed by AEI resident fellow Ted Frank.