Question

Why do we need state constitutions?

Answer 1

So we can keep the balance between the federal and state governments. Our government is all about the balance of powers, that's why we also have 3 branches of government: legislative, judicial, and executive. State constitutions will keep our federal government in line and free from tyranny just as federal laws will do the same for the states.

Answer 2

Initially in this country the Bill of Rights only pertained to the Federal Government therefore allowing each state entire freedom in their legal system. It wasn't until after the Civil War when the 14th Amendment was passed, 1868, that a Supreme Court decision was made that required each State to make the Bill of Rights part of their Constitution.