The Principle of Hierarchy of Legal Norms in the Judicial Function
Keywords:
Constitutional supremacy, Hierarchy of norms, Judicial function, Legal norms, Principle of legalityAbstract
This article examines the principle of hierarchy of legal norms in the exercise of the judicial function. The contemporary state is governed by the principle of legality, a fundamental element of the rule of law, ensuring effective protection of fundamental rights and freedoms. The concept of law encompasses all legal norms in force within the state legal order, regardless of their source. Given the multiplicity of normative sources, whose production is not limited to a single state authority, conflicts between norms are likely to occur. Consequently, it is necessary to identify a principle that simultaneously ensures coherence and harmony among all legal norms that constitute the state's legal order and resolves normative conflicts. Legal doctrine and, subsequently, jurisprudence have established the principle of hierarchy of legal norms as an essential mechanism for such purpose, recognizing it as a constitutive element and guarantee of the rule of law. This study analyzes, through qualitative, descriptive, and comparative methodology, the hierarchical structure of written norms (constitutional, international conventional, legislative, and regulatory) and unwritten norms (principles of Islamic Sharia, customary norms, natural law, and general principles of law), examining the position of each category within the normative pyramid and the legal consequences of their application by the judicial authority.
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