What is the difference between constitutional and statutory law?

Constitutional and statutory law both govern the people of Washington, but they are two different types of law. Constitutional law is more broad and overarching than statutory law and serves to protect the rights of individuals, groups, and institutions. It is derived from the state and federal constitutions and generally cannot be overturned by a state’s legislature or judiciary. Statutory law, on the other hand, is designed specifically by the legislature with the aim to further define regulations that are already set in place by the constitution. It can be overturned by the legislature or by the court and therefore is more likely to change over time. To give an example of the difference between the two types of law, the right to bear arms is protected by the United States Constitution, and so is a constitutional law. In Washington, the specific rules and regulations related to this right are statutory laws and may be changed by the legislature. In general, statutory law is more specific than constitutional law and as such can be changed more frequently or in response to particular events. Constitutional law, on the other hand, is more general and has a more lasting impact. Together, the two types of law create a balanced legal system in Washington.

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What is the difference between constitutional and statutory law?

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