Malta · Overview
The legal system of Malta
A mixed jurisdiction blending a Continental civil code with English-style public law and procedure. The 1964 Constitution provides for a parliamentary republic, and Malta is an EU and eurozone member with English as a co-official legal language.
Legal tradition
Malta belongs to the mixed (civil and common law) tradition. A mixed jurisdiction blending a Continental civil code with English-style public law and procedure. The 1964 Constitution provides for a parliamentary republic, and Malta is an EU and eurozone member with English as a co-official legal language.
How power is divided
A parliamentary republic with a ceremonial President, a Cabinet led by the Prime Minister answerable to the House of Representatives and an independent judiciary.
Where law comes from
- Constitution
- The 1964 constitution, supreme law.
- EU law
- Directly applicable and, in its field, paramount.
- Acts of Parliament
- Primary legislation and subsidiary legislation.
- Codes
- The Civil Code, Commercial Code and Criminal Code.
The legal profession
Advocates are admitted to the bar after a law degree and warrant; legal procurators and notaries handle procedural filing and authentication of deeds.
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