Image for French legal system

French legal system

The French legal system is based on civil law, which relies on comprehensive written codes rather than case law. The primary sources of law include the Constitution, legislation, and judicial decisions. Courts are hierarchical, with local courts handling most cases and higher courts, like the Court of Cassation, overseeing legal interpretations. Administrative law deals with government actions, while the judiciary operates independently. France also embraces principles of equality and human rights, rooted in the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. Legal disputes can involve various branches like criminal, civil, and administrative law, ensuring a structured approach to justice.