what are the formal and informal methods of constitutional changes
Answer
Hi Sylvia-
Thanks for contacting the Online Library. Can you clarify your question? Are you referring to the US Constitution or state constitutions? The US Constitution can only be amended by Congressional amendment ratified by the states:
http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/constitution/
Please let me know if this does not answer your question.
Regards,
Kristin Kozusko, MLIS
Informal method of amending the United States Constitution:
• By judicial interpretation (in Marbury v. Madison-1803) the Supreme Court declared that the federal courts had the power to nullify actions of the national government if found to be in conflict with the Constitution.
• Social, cultural and legal change.
http://www.personal.kent.edu/~rrobyn/Chap%2002%20Outline.htm
USConstitution.net also points out two methods of informal amendment. The first occurs when the interpretation of the Constitution shifts due to changing societal circumstances.
The other informal amendment method involves judicial review. Because the judicial branch is in charge of interpreting the Constitution, any changes in the judicial view of the Constitution change the way that the Constitution works in society.
https://www.reference.com/government-politics/informal-amendment-process-e55f60991d9d4ae5
http://www.usconstitution.net/constam.html