Venezuela is located in the northern coast of South America, comprised of a continental landmass and smaller outlying islands. Caracas is the capital and largest city. The Venezuelan territory was originally  colonized by Spain in 1522, and in 1811, became one of the first Spanish-American countries to declare independence. Independence, however, was not finalized until 1822, with the formation of Gran Colombia, and gained full independence in 1830.

Venezuela is a charter member of the UN, LAIA, OEI, UNASUR, ALBA, and OAS. The country is a federal republic, made up of 23 states, federal dependencies, and the Capital District. Oil was discovered in the 20th century, and today the country has the  largest known oil reserves and is leader in oil exportation worldwide.

The President of the country is elected by popular vote and Venezuela has universal suffrage. The President is head of state and government, with a 6-year term in office. Presidents can be reelected unlimited times by popular vote after completed terms. The President appoints a Vice President and defines the cabinet size during their Presidential term.

In Venezuela, the legal system belongs to the the Continental Law tradition. The Supreme Tribunal of Justice  is the highest judicial body in the country, and magistrates are elected every 2-years by parliament. Electoral processes are headed by the  National Electoral Council, comprised of 5-members, elected by the National Assembly. Venezuela was the first country in the world to abolish the death penalty in 1863.

Visitors of the National Law Review will find the latest news, stories, and legal updates from the country of Venezuela online. Political sanctions, embargoes and trade, travel restrictions, and news related to import/export of oil and petroleum, are among the stories covered online. Visitors of the National Law Review will find the latest stories affecting residents of the country, as well as international relations with other countries around the world.