Honduras’s legal system

Honduras is a civil law country whose legal system is based on Spanish law, as well as on the Roman law traditions of continental Europe. The Honduran legal system is composed of a hierarchical structure of courts, from the Supreme Court of Justice at the apex to municipal courts at the base.

The Honduran Constitution is the highest legal document in the country, followed by the Code of Criminal Procedure, the Code of Civil Procedure and the Commercial Code. The Constitution guarantees the right to a fair trial, as well as a number of other rights, including the right to privacy, freedom of expression and freedom of association.

The Honduran legal system is divided into three main areas: civil and commercial law, criminal law and constitutional law. Civil and commercial law consists of the regulation of contracts and other private rights, while criminal law covers offenses against the state and the general public. Constitutional law is concerned with the interpretation and application of the Constitution, and the protection of individual rights.

The Honduran Supreme Court of Justice is the highest court in the country and is responsible for the administration of justice. The Supreme Court is composed of nine justices, appointed by the President and ratified by the National Congress. There are also appellate courts that hear appeals from lower courts and the Supreme Court.

The judicial system of Honduras is supported by a number of specialized lower courts, including labor courts, family courts, juvenile courts and military courts. These courts are responsible for hearing specific types of cases. The Supreme Court also has the authority to issue rulings on constitutional matters.