The Pyramid of Norms
A legal system is a hierarchy: rank decides collisions. Top to bottom: Constitution (supreme norm); International treaties; Laws (organic laws need absolute majority, ordinary laws simple); Decree-laws (urgent, ratified later) and Legislative decrees (delegated); Regulations (executive rules); Custom (fills gaps); General principles (good faith).
| Rank | Norm | Maker |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Constitution | Constituent |
| 2 | Treaties | Ratified |
| 3 | Laws / Force of Law | Parliament / Govt |
| 4 | Regulations | Executive |
Key rules: Higher rank beats lower. A norm changes only by equal or higher rank.
Pitfall: Decree-laws answer post-urgency; legislative decrees execute prior delegation.
When Rules Collide
Real legal work resolves conflicts via three criteria in strict order. Time never overrides hierarchy.
| Criterion | Tag | Wins when | ---- |
| Hierarchy | lex superior | Higher rank prevails | |
| Specialty | lex specialis | Same rank: specific beats general | |
| Time | lex posterior | Same rank/specificity: later prevails |
Pitfall: An older special law survives a newer general law. Repeal by general law is never presumed.
Business impact: Ministerial orders exceeding tax laws are void. Consumer rules beat general contracts by specialty.