This website offers an introduction to the many ways judicial systems can be structured, the work of international tribunals, and the field of international rule of law. Please click here to view a short video about the site. Background information and a list of contributors can be found here.

 
Legal Traditions

 

Courts

 

Judges

 

Civil

 

Criminal

 

Country Profiles

 

International
Rule of Law

 


Legal Systems Around the World

Every nation has a unique legal system that reflects its history, culture, and government structure. Along with the civil and common law traditions, religious law plays a role in many parts of the world. This map offers a basic overview of the world’s judicial systems, including legal tradition, highest court, and selected features. More information about nations not included in the Country Profiles section will be added overtime.

Hover over a country on the map to learn more about its legal system; to find a specific country, use the search option by clicking on the magnifying glass on the top-left corner.
 

Recent Content

Constitutional Courts Banner
Constitutional courts, also known as constitutional tribunals or constitutional councils, have exclusive jurisdiction over constitutional matters. This includes constitutional review of legislation, regulations, and government acts. The rulings of constitutional courts…
Restorative Justice Banner
Restorative justice offers an alternative to the traditional criminal justice paradigm: rather than focusing on punishment and retribution, it elevates the victim’s needs. There is no single model of restorative justice. What Does Restorative Justice Look Like?The…
Legal traditions banner
Nations follow different legal traditions and have adopted theories of jurisprudence and approaches to adjudication that best suit their culture and needs. Many countries also have specialized justice mechanisms to address discrete needs, for example military justice and transitional justice…