The Law and the Principle of Legality

Abstract

In describing the two central aspects of law and the principle of legality, this chapter underscores how both formal and material laws are part of the Swiss legal system. It also introduces the concepts of legislation and the hierarchy of norms. Swiss law is not limited to written laws but also includes unwritten principles and case law. All these elements stress how pervasive legal aspects are in today’s policies. Law is the basis of state action, but law also limits such action.