Government Structure
State constitutions vary in how they structure state governments and distribute power among the branches of government and between the state and localities. State governments include statewide executive, legislative, and judicial branches, but also multiple county, district, municipal, and local governments.
Home rule disputes between states and localities, separation of powers among the branches of government, the limits of executive power, jurisdiction of courts, and limits on legislative authority all regularly give rise to litigation.
Filters
Governor DeSantis vs. Prosecutorial Discretion
Florida is one of several places where prosecutors are being targeted because of their charging decisions.
The Latest Legal Challenge to Reform-Minded Prosecutors
Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court will consider whether state legislatures can remove a local law enforcement official.
The Major Questions Doctrine in the States
Judicial Advisory Opinions Explained
State and federal courts differ not just in the substantive rights they recognize but also in how they define judicial power.
Fifty Unique, Ever-Changing State Constitutions
New Mexico Supreme Court Adopts New Separation-of-Powers Approach to Disbursing Federal Funds
Voters Amend State Constitutions Around the Country
Kentucky Supreme Court Strikes Down Law Meant to Steer Cases Away from ‘Liberal’ Judges