Global Legal Information

The legal system of Benin is influenced by the French system, although traditional local customary laws have still an important role (however, most of these customs have been included into codes and written laws). The main source of the law is the constitution.
The national assembly serves as the parliament and primary legislative body of Benin. It exercises legislative power and oversight authority over government action.

Although the constitution provides for an independent judiciary, the courts are inefficient and susceptible to corruption.
The constitutional court allows private citizens to challenge the government.
The supreme court has the highest level of jurisdiction in legal matters and checks on the executive branch, also acting in a consultative role. The High Court of Justice is made up of members of the constitutional court, parliament, and the president of the supreme court. It is the sole court able to judge the president.