Imperial Constitution
The Imperial Constitution
The Imperial Constitution sets out the following:
- the principles underlying the relationship between the Nations and the Empire and the role of the Imperial Civil Service;
- the organs of the state and their appointed representatives; and
- the principles underlying the relationship between the citizen and the state (the “Bill of Responsibilities”).
The nations which comprise the Empire are governed by Imperial Law which applies equally everywhere in the Empire. While each nation has its own traditions and customs they are superseded in circumstances where they conflict with Imperial Law. Imperial law itself is based on principles rather than legalistic precedents of previous cases. Those accused of crimes or engaged in civil claims would normally be expected to speak for themselves. Accordingly, there is no strong tradition of lawyers within the Empire.
Magistrates are accorded wide-ranging discretionary powers under the constitution. There is no right to appeal against the lawful judgement of a magistrate, except to the mercy of the Empress. Amongst her other constitutional powers the Empress may submit bills (draft legislation) to the Senate for their approval. Senators may also submit bills for approval in the Senate but these are subject to veto by the Empress. The Synod also has a limited power of veto over the Senate (and in effect, Senators) in their role as guardians of virtue. Any law, bill or motion in the Senate which contravenes the principles of the constitution shall be struck out.
There is a lengthy and difficult legal process by which the constitution may be changed. All constitutional changes made by the Senate must be ratified by both the Empress and the Synod. The body of criminal law provides the state with sanctions against citizens who have breached their social obligations to the state. In turn the body of civil law governs legal remedies available to individuals against other individuals (for example, as a result of a contractual dispute).
The Synod have some other legal powers in relation to the law: sanctuary, clemency, witness, and inquisition. There are also some religious crimes: blasphemy, idolatry and heresy.