Conseil d'État, Supreme administrative court in Palais-Royal, Paris, France
The Conseil d'État is the highest administrative court in France, reviewing disputes between citizens and government bodies in final appeal. The institution also advises the government on the drafting of laws and regulations, examining their legality before they take effect.
Napoléon Bonaparte created this institution on December 13, 1799, as part of his administrative reforms following the Revolution. It replaced the old royal council and received the mission to develop administrative law and bring consistency to government decisions.
Members of the Council belong to the French Grand Corps de l'État and generally come from graduates of the National School of Administration.
Access to the institution is strictly regulated, and only lawyers or parties involved in ongoing cases can enter the premises inside the Palais-Royal. Most publicly available decisions and opinions can be consulted through the official website.
The rooms inside the Palais-Royal house a major legal library with collections dating back to the 18th century. The institution has occupied the same location in the north wing of the historic building complex since its founding.
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