How does statutory law differ from constitutional law?
Statutory law refers to laws that are created by legislative bodies, such as Congress or state legislatures. These laws are written, debated, and voted on by elected officials. They cover a wide range of topics and issues in society, such as criminal offenses, civil rights, and taxation.
Constitutional law, on the other hand, refers to the body of law that is derived from the constitution of a country or state. It outlines the fundamental principles and framework of government, establishes the powers and limitations of the various branches of government, and protects the rights of individuals.
The main difference between statutory law and constitutional law lies in their sources and authority. Statutory law is created by legislative bodies through the normal lawmaking process, while constitutional law is derived from the constitution and is considered the supreme law of the land. Constitutional law sets the framework within which statutory laws are created and enforced.
In terms of hierarchy, constitutional law holds a higher status than statutory law. If a statutory law conflicts with the provisions of the constitution, it can be deemed unconstitutional and struck down by the courts. Constitutional law also offers a higher level of protection for individual rights and liberties, as it ensures that the actions of the government are in compliance with the constitution.
Overall, statutory law refers to laws created by legislatures, while constitutional law refers to the fundamental principles and framework of government derived from the constitution. While statutory laws can be changed through the legislative process, constitutional laws are typically more difficult to amend or modify.