Understanding Parliament Sovereignty: The Cornerstone of Legislative Authority

Definition & Meaning

Parliament sovereignty refers to the ultimate authority of a legislative body to create, modify, or repeal any law without being constrained by any other governmental entity, such as the executive or judicial branches. This principle asserts that the legislative body is not bound by prior laws or judicial precedents. In contrast to systems that emphasize separation of powers or judicial review, parliamentary sovereignty allows for legislative decisions to remain unchallenged by other branches of government.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A parliament decides to pass a new law that increases taxes. This law can be enacted without needing approval from the executive branch or the courts.

Example 2: A legislative body repeals an existing law that previously regulated business practices, demonstrating its authority to change laws as it sees fit. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Parliament Sovereignty Supreme authority of a legislative body to enact laws. Not bound by prior laws or judicial review.
Separation of Powers Distribution of authority among legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Legislative decisions can be challenged by other branches.
Judicial Review Power of courts to invalidate laws that conflict with the constitution. Judicial authority can override legislative decisions.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself navigating issues related to parliamentary sovereignty, consider researching the specific laws and procedures applicable in your jurisdiction. You may also explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you draft necessary documents or understand your rights. If your situation is complex, seeking professional legal assistance is advisable.

Quick facts

  • Authority: Legislative body has supreme power.
  • Limitations: Not bound by previous laws or judicial decisions.
  • Contrast: Different from systems with judicial review.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It is the principle that a legislative body has the supreme authority to create or change laws without external limitations.