seadusjärjestustes

Seadusjärjestustes refers to the hierarchical structure and relationship between different legal norms within a legal system. It is the concept that laws are not a chaotic collection of rules but are organized in a specific order of precedence. This ordering ensures consistency and clarity in the application of law, resolving potential conflicts between different legal provisions.

At the apex of most legal systems stands the constitution, which is considered the supreme law. All other laws, such as statutes enacted by the legislature, regulations issued by executive bodies, and even customary law, must conform to the constitution. If a law contradicts the constitution, it can be declared invalid. Below the constitution are statutes, which are the primary source of law created by the legislative branch. These statutes are generally considered superior to regulations.

Regulations, also known as secondary legislation or delegated legislation, are rules created by government agencies or other executive bodies under the authority granted to them by statutes. They are more detailed and specific than statutes, aiming to implement the broader principles laid down in legislation. At the lowest level, or in certain contexts, customary law and the principles of case law (precedent) may also play a role, though their standing relative to written law can vary significantly between jurisdictions. The concept of seadusjärjestustes is crucial for legal certainty, predictability, and the effective functioning of the rule of law.