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Overview of Sources of Federal Law

Learn about what makes up the body of federal law and how it is generated.

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I. Introduction

Several sources of federal law exist. The primary source is, of course, the Constitution. Treaties to which the United States is a signatory also constitute applicable law. As previously mentioned, Congress enacts federal statutes, and administrative agencies adopt administrative rules. And finally, federal courts issue decisions that become part of the body of law.

II. The Constitution

The Constitution is the fundamental source of American law. It provides for the basic...