The legal system of Slovakia is based on the civil law system, which is derived from the Napoleonic Code. The Slovak Republic has been a member of the European Union since 2004, and as such has adopted laws and regulations in accordance with the EU’s requirements. The main source of law in Slovakia is the Constitution of the Slovak Republic, which was adopted in 1992 and amended in 2001. Other important sources of law include statutes, international treaties, and regulations issued by the government.
The court system in Slovakia is divided into four levels: the Supreme Court, regional courts, district courts, and local courts. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the country and is responsible for interpreting the Constitution and laws of the Slovak Republic. The Supreme Court also hears appeals from lower court decisions. Below the Supreme Court are the regional courts, which are the courts of appeal for cases from the district courts. The district courts are the courts of first instance, meaning that they hear the initial cases brought before them. The local courts are responsible for minor matters such as small claims and criminal offenses punishable by a fine.