Leader in law theory: in memory of Alexander Fedorovich Cherdantsev

The article is dedicated to the memory of Professor A.F. Cherdantsev, a well-known Russian legal theorist. In the focus are creative periods of the scientist's life. Particular attention is paid to his contribution to the development of legal science with the emphasis on law interpretation, scientist’s achievements in the field of investigating epistemological nature, values (principles) of interpretation of legal norms, formulation of linguistic, systemic and other rules. The author's contribution to the development of methodology of law and his criticism of the integrative approach in jurisprudence have also been illustrated. The article analyzes the scholar’s development of the legal norm doctrine, its structure, technical and legal regulations, etc. His contribution to the development of educational literature is separately considered and highly appreciated. The tribute is also given to his individual scientific papers. It is proposed to systematize and republish Professor Cherdantsev’s works.