This type of constitution is defined as one in which the fundamental laws, principles, conventions, customs, norms, rules and regulations governing a state/country are embodied in a formal document which can be referred to, whenever the need arises. Examples of countries operating this type of constitution are Nigeria, USA, Canada, Ghana, France, India etc.
Advantages of a Written Constitution
1. A written constitution offers the citizens the opportunity of having access to it. This is because it can easily be bought at the market.
2. By buying the constitution, it enables the citizens to read and know their rights and obligations since all these are clearly written out in the constitution.
3. It lends itself to easy judicial interpretation.
4. It helps to ensure political stability owing to the general awareness of its provisions by the citizens.
5. It is easily referred to whenever the need arises.
6. It helps to fight against the emergence of dictatorship at least in theory.
7. It provides for the establishment of a Supreme Court, which is responsible for resolving any controversy in the country.
Disadvantages of a Written Constitution
1. Amendment to the written constitution is fraught with complicated administrative procedures and bottlenecks.
2. A written constitution may not be dynamic in responding to the changes in socio-political trends.
3. It may not be able to serve the needs of an emergency situation.
4. It is subject to frequent litigations, as a result of which much valuable time and energy is lost in governance.
5. The rigidity of the constitution makes it difficult to amend.