The legal system of Venezuela is founded on the Constitution of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, which is the supreme law of the country and the highest-ranking norm within the legal order. All persons and public authorities are subject to the Constitution, and all legislation and state actions must conform to its provisions.

The Constitution establishes a hierarchy of legal norms in which the Constitution prevails over all other legal instruments. Laws are enacted by the National Assembly and must be consistent with constitutional provisions. The Supreme Tribunal of Justice is responsible for ensuring supremacy and uniform interpretation of the Constitution through constitutional review.

International treaties, agreements and conventions relating to human rights that have been ratified by Venezuela form part of the domestic legal order and prevail over national legislation where they establish standards that are more favourable to the enjoyment and exercise of human rights.

The Constitution also recognises legal pluralism to a limited extent. Indigenous authorities may exercise jurisdiction within their ancestral habitats and lands according to their traditions and customs, provided that their decisions are not contrary to the Constitution, the law, or public order. In addition, the Constitution promotes alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, including arbitration, conciliation, mediation, and other means established by law.