Constitution

Question 1

what is a constitution?

Answer 1

something which comprises the laws, rules and practices by which a state is governed. it allows for the setting out of formal relationships between different branches of government and can outline certain rights of citizens (bill of rights)

Question 2

what are the two types?

Answer 2

codified and uncodified

Question 3

codified constitutions

Answer 3

one which is entirely written down in one place. e.g the us constitution consisting of 27 amendments

Question 4

uncodified consitition

Answer 4

one that is not entirely written down in one single place. e.g uk constitution which is written down in seperate documents

Question 5

features of codified constitution

Answer 5

1. the constitution exists as a higher body of law.
2. it cannot be amended like normal laws passed by the legislature.
3. as it cannot be amended, you would call it ‘entrenched’

Question 6

features of an uncodified constitution

Answer 6

there are no higher laws (e.g in UK there are no fundamental or higher laws as our constitution is not entrenched)