The main task of the court is to review the constitutionality of the newly approved laws, but it also has important powers related to the President of the Republic, the political parties, and referendums.

The court convenes in Lisbon, in the Ratton Palace located in Bairro Alto.

The court is composed by thirteen Justices, ten of them are elected by the Assembly of the Republic, the main legislative branch of the country, and they must be elected by two thirds majority of the members of the Assembly.

Of the thirteen Justices, six must be chosen among the general court's judges, the remaining must have at least a degree in law.

The Constitutional Court elects its own president and vice-president and approves its own rules, schedule and budget.