What is NOT a function of constitutions?

Constitutions serve several key functions within a legal framework, primarily focused on the organization and operation of government and the protection of individual rights. One important function is defining the powers of government, which situates the authority of different branches and delineates the limits of governmental power. Additionally, constitutions outline the structure of government, specifying how various components like the legislative, executive, and judicial branches interact and operate.

Furthermore, constitutions are fundamental in articulating the rights of individuals, ensuring that these rights are recognized and protected against infringement by the state. They serve as a cornerstone for civil liberties and fundamental freedoms, establishing the legal basis for individual entitlements.

However, constitutions do not typically define laws for illegal acts; this function is usually reserved for statutes, regulations, and case law created by legislatures and courts. Laws regarding illegal acts fall under the domain of criminal law and civil law, which are developed through legislative processes and judicial interpretations rather than being codified directly within a constitution. This distinction highlights why the assertion that constitutions define laws for illegal acts is not accurate.