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

 


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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

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Criminal

Criminal procedure plays a fundamental role in all justice systems, ensuring the right to a fair trial and protecting the rights of victims and the interests of society. Countries have developed different strategies for addressing these values, as reflected in their trial…
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Courts

Courts play a central role in the administration of justice. Effective governance and court management are essential. Judiciaries have adopted different strategies for creating leadership structures, developing their budgets, staffing administrative positions, and ensuring public access to…
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Hand reaching for legal book on the shelf

Civil

Rules of civil procedure inform the way litigation develops and proceeds through the courts. They also influence the role of judges, lawyers, and court personnel, the production and probative value of evidence, and the duration of court proceedings. The differences between legal systems can be…
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