Constitutional convention
3 definitions found for this term.
Definitions are presented in the order source books were published (most recent first).
An unwritten rule, rather than formal laws, that is enforced through the political process rather than in the courts. The Canadian Constitution consists of written constitutional texts, judicial precedents, and constitutional conventions.
Non-legal rules that limit political powers and ensure that such powers are used in accordance with democratic principles. These rules of the constitution are occasionally recognized, but are not enforced, by the courts, and are regarded as politically binding by the governmental actors.
Constitutionalized practices based on precedents established by the political institutions of government themselves, not court jurisprudence, and which are not enforced by the courts.