Government of Delaware
The Government of Delaware is the administrative structure of the state, organized into three branches established by the 1897 Delaware Constitution. The state is divided geographically into three counties: New Castle, Kent, and Sussex. These branches exercise distinct governmental powers while maintaining checks and balances to preserve constitutional governance.
Three Branches
The executive branch is headed by the elected Governor, who serves as chief executive and commander-in-chief of state militia. The Governor appoints cabinet members and directs state agencies. The legislative branch, called the Delaware General Assembly, is a bicameral body consisting of the Senate with 21 members and the House of Representatives with 41 members. Both chambers convene at the Delaware Legislative Hall in Dover. The judicial branch is led by the Delaware Supreme Court and includes subordinate courts such as the Court of Chancery and Superior Court, which interpret state law and resolve disputes.
Unique Features
Delaware's Court of Chancery is a distinctive court of equity without a jury system. It has jurisdiction over business disputes, fiduciary matters, and constitutional questions. The court is known nationally for its expertise in corporate law and attracts significant caseloads involving interstate commerce and corporate governance.
The Delaware General Assembly has unique constitutional authority to amend the state constitution without requiring a voter referendum or other external approval, a power held by no other state legislature.
The Three Counties
Delaware comprises three counties: New Castle County (the largest, containing Wilmington), Kent County (central Delaware), and Sussex County (southern Delaware). This compact county structure stands in contrast to most U.S. states, which have numerous counties.
References