What is the highest law of the land?

The Constitution is recognized as the highest law of the land in the United States. This status comes from the Supremacy Clause, found in Article VI, which establishes that the Constitution, along with federal laws and treaties made under its authority, takes precedence over state laws and constitutions. This means that in any legal conflict between state laws and federal law, federal law will prevail, reflecting the foundational principle that the Constitution provides the legal framework for government and safeguards individual rights and liberties.

Furthermore, while federal statutes and international treaties are also important legal instruments, they derive their authority from the Constitution and cannot supersede it. In contrast, state laws must comply with both the Constitution and federal laws. This hierarchical structure ensures a cohesive legal system and maintains the rule of law across the nation.