Legal constraints on government activities primarily derive from which of the following?

Legal constraints on government activities primarily derive from constitutions, statutes, and ordinances because these are the foundational legal frameworks that define the powers, limitations, and responsibilities of governmental entities. Constitutions serve as the highest law of the land, establishing the principles of governance and the rights of citizens. Statutes are laws enacted by legislative bodies that provide specific guidelines for government operations, while ordinances are local laws enacted by municipalities or counties that govern specific geographic areas.

These sources create a structured legal environment in which government operates, ensuring that actions taken by public officials are within the bounds of legality. They also provide a means for citizens to challenge unlawful government actions, thus reinforcing accountability and the rule of law. As such, constitutions, statutes, and ordinances form the bedrock of legal constraints that guide and limit governmental authority.

By comparison, judicial decisions can interpret these laws and also provide constraints through case law, but they do so within the parameters set by the existing statutes and constitutional provisions. Public opinion can influence government actions but does not establish legal constraints. International treaties may impose obligations on governments, but they are often subject to domestic law and not the primary source of legal constraints on typical governmental activities.