the fundamental constitutional principle, inspired by john locke, holds that the individual can do anything except that which is forbidden by law, and the state may do nothing except that which is authorised by law. administrative law is the chief method for people to hold state bodies to account. people can sue an agency, local council, public service, or government ministry for judicial review of actions or decisions, to ensure that they comply with the law, and that the government entity observed required procedure. the first specialist administrative court was the "conseil d'état" set up in 1799, as napoleon assumed power in france.