Statymai

Statymai, in the Lithuanian language, are formal rules enacted by the state to regulate social life, defining rights and duties, structuring public authority, and governing relations between individuals, businesses, and the state. In the Lithuanian legal order, statymai are the primary form of legislation and are published in the official State Gazette to enter into force.

The constitution is the supreme law; ordinary statymai, adopted by the Seimas (the Lithuanian Parliament), are subordinate to the Constitution. International treaties ratified by Seimas form part of national law after publication, and in case of conflict with inconsistent national statutes the Constitution prevails.

The legislative process typically starts with a draft bill proposed by members of Seimas, the Government, or the President, and may involve parliamentary committees and public discussion. After three readings and approval by an appropriate majority, the President signs the act and it is promulgated and published in the State Gazette, becoming binding on all persons and institutions within Lithuania.

Statymai regulate a wide range of areas, including civil rights and obligations, criminal law, commerce, taxation, social security, and administrative procedure. They are interpreted by the courts and administrative authorities, and their constitutionality can be reviewed by the Constitutional Court. If a statymas is found unconstitutional, it can be annulled or revised.

In practice, the Lithuanian system also relies on other normative acts, such as government decrees and ministerial regulations, to implement statymai; international treaties may require implementing legislation or have direct effect under specific conditions. Overall, statymai provide the framework for governance, legal certainty, and the protection of fundamental rights within the country.