What is the Difference Between Constitution and Bylaws?

The main difference between a constitution and bylaws lies in their purpose and content. Here are the key differences:

Constitution: A constitution is a document containing the fundamental principles of an organization, which determine the responsibilities and rights of its officers and members. It establishes the overall purpose and goals of the organization and provides a framework for its operations. A constitution is not typically changed unless the organization's purpose changes.
Bylaws: Bylaws are the detailed procedures and working guidelines of an organization that govern its day-to-day operations. They establish specific rules by which the group is to function and provide further definitions to the articles of the constitution. Bylaws can be changed more easily as the needs of the organization change.

In summary, a constitution sets out the basic principles and purpose of an organization, while bylaws provide specific rules and procedures for its day-to-day operations.

Comparative Table: Constitution vs Bylaws

Here is a table summarizing the differences between a constitution and bylaws:

Feature	Constitution	Bylaws
Definition	A constitution is a legal document containing rules and regulations that specify norms of behavior and a code of conduct for an organization.	A bylaw is any law or rule that an organization has created for the purpose of regulating itself.
Authority	The constitution is the highest authority level.	Bylaws must be interpreted and enforced by a higher authority.
Nature	The constitution is general in its nature.	Bylaws have a specific nature.
Function	The constitution contains primary principles on how an organization is governed.	Bylaws are rules made by an organization to control and manage its daily operations.
Amendments	Changes to the constitution should be presented at one meeting and then voted upon at another.	Changes to the bylaws should be presented at one meeting and then voted upon at another.
Conflict	Bylaws must not contradict provisions in the constitution.	-

In summary, a constitution is a legal document that outlines the basic principles and rules for an organization's governance, while bylaws are specific rules created by the organization to regulate its daily operations. Bylaws must not conflict with the provisions of the constitution, and they should expand upon the articles of the constitution to provide a more detailed framework for the organization's operations.

Constitution vs Legislation
Written vs Unwritten Constitution
Articles of Confederation vs US Constitution
Constitutional vs Nonconstitutional Governments
Laws vs Rules
Rules vs Regulations
Law vs Regulation
Ordinance vs Law
Monarchy vs Constitutional Monarchy
Law vs Legislation
Law vs Policy
Constitutional Monarchy vs Democracy
Law vs Statute
Code of Ethics vs Code of Conduct
Chairman vs President
Convention vs Declaration
Corporation vs Incorporation
Convention vs Protocol
Convention vs Conference

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.

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