A framework for classification of ostracodes, based both on soft parts and finer morphological features of the carapace, is presented. Only those families, which possess living representative, and their systematic position can be diagnosed by their soft part characteristics, are discussed here. This paper is an attempt to summarize the current status of systematics of modem and fossil otracodes. This classification is supergeneric in nature and will be useful for larger taxonomic units. Placement of a few genera in higher taxonomic categories is tentative and may need some later modification.