What is the highest authority within each jurisdiction?

The highest authority within each jurisdiction is the constitution. This is because a constitution fundamentally outlines the structure of government, establishes the distribution of power among different branches, and articulates the rights and obligations of citizens. It serves as the supreme law of the land, meaning that any law or policy that contradicts the constitution can be deemed invalid. In federal systems, while both state and federal laws exist, they are subordinate to the constitution, ensuring that no legislation or common law can supersede constitutional provisions. Understanding the primacy of the constitution is critical, as it provides the framework within which all other laws are created and enforced in a jurisdiction.