What is one of the primary sources of authority in law?

The Constitution is indeed one of the primary sources of authority in law because it establishes the fundamental principles and framework of government. It outlines the structure, powers, and limitations of government entities, as well as the rights of individuals, serving as the supreme law of the land. All laws and governmental actions must conform to the Constitution, and any conflicting laws may be declared unconstitutional by the judiciary. This guarantees that the provisions within the Constitution are upheld within the legal system, providing a consistent and reliable standard for interpreting and enforcing laws.

While common law is also an important source of law, it is derived from judicial decisions and precedents and operates under the framework established by the Constitution. Traditional practices may influence legal interpretations or provide context in specific cases, but they do not hold the same authority as codified laws. International treaties are crucial in the context of federal law and international relations, but their authority is secondary to that of the Constitution when it comes to domestic law, as treaties must be consistent with constitutional principles. Therefore, the Constitution stands out as the foundational source from which all other laws derive their legitimacy.