Law of Pennsylvania

The Law of Pennsylvania consists of several levels, including constitutional, statutory, and regulatory law, as well as case law and local laws. The legal system of Pennsylvania is based on the common law tradition, which Pennsylvania inherited from the British legal system during the colonial era.

Constitutional Law

The foundation of legal authority in the Commonwealth is the Constitution of Pennsylvania, which provides the framework for the government and its laws. The current constitution was adopted in 1968, but it has been amended numerous times since then to address specific issues and modernize governance.

Statutory Law

The statutory law of Pennsylvania is codified in the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, which are organized by subject matter. It covers a wide range of areas, from criminal law to environmental regulation. The Pennsylvania General Assembly, consisting of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and the Pennsylvania Senate, is responsible for creating and passing these statutes.

Regulatory Law

Regulatory law in Pennsylvania is developed by state agencies and departments, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. These agencies create regulations and guidelines to implement and enforce state statutes, under the authority granted by the legislature and the governor.

Case Law

The judicial system of Pennsylvania plays a crucial role in interpreting and applying the laws of the state. The highest court is the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, followed by the Superior Court of Pennsylvania and the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania. Decisions made by these courts are binding on all lower state courts and contribute to the body of Pennsylvania case law.

Local Laws

In addition to state-level laws, local jurisdictions such as counties, cities, and townships may enact ordinances and regulations that apply within their specific areas. These local laws can cover issues like zoning, local taxation, and municipal services, provided they do not conflict with state law.

Legal Education and Practice

The practice of law in Pennsylvania is regulated by the Pennsylvania Bar Association and the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. To practice law in Pennsylvania, individuals must pass the Pennsylvania Bar Examination and meet other requirements set by the state bar association.

See Also

• Law of the United States
• Pennsylvania General Assembly
• Supreme Court of Pennsylvania