Law in Iran

Iran has a written legal system shaped by the Constitution, laws passed through the legislative process, government regulations, and Islamic legal principles. Religious rules are therefore part of the state legal order rather than a separate private system. The Constitution describes the main state institutions and basic public rights. Legislation must pass through Iran’s constitutional review structure, in which compatibility with the Constitution and Islamic principles plays an important role. Courts form part of the judiciary. Ordinary courts generally deal with civil and criminal disputes, while specialized branches or bodies handle matters such as family cases, administrative complaints, and certain commercial or revolutionary offenses. A case normally begins with a formal complaint, petition, or claim. The responsible authority registers it, reviews evidence, hears the parties where required, and issues a decision that may be open to review or appeal. Written evidence is especially important. Contracts, identity documents, receipts, official notices, witness information, and electronic records can help show what happened and what each person agreed to do. Some everyday matters may first go through negotiation, mediation, an administrative office, or a dispute-resolution body. A settlement can be faster and less confrontational, but its wording and legal effect should be understood before acceptance. Legal rights may depend on personal status, nationality, residence, the kind of transaction, and the court involved. Rules affecting family life, public conduct, media, online activity, and dealings with authorities can differ greatly from those familiar in other countries. A qualified Iranian lawyer can identify the correct procedure, prepare Persian-language documents, and explain risks. Early advice is particularly useful when liberty, immigration status, family relations, property, or a large financial interest is involved.