The Canadian Justice System

Table Of Content

Based on:

• Rule of law.
• Freedom under the law.
• Democratic values.
• Due process – the government must respect all legal rights owed to individuals.

Presumption of innocence — everyone is innocent until proven guilty.

Lady Justice at Vancouver Law Courts symbolizes impartial law (blind to everything but the facts).

Laws in Canada

Created by elected representatives.

Apply equally to everyone, including judges, politicians, and police.

Purposes of law:

• Maintain order.
• Provide a peaceful way to settle disputes.
• Reflect Canadian values and beliefs.

Courts in Canada

Supreme Court of Canada – the highest court in the country.

Federal Court of Canada – handles federal matters.

Provincial/Territorial Courts include:

• Appeal courts and trial courts (e.g., Court of Queen’s Bench or Supreme Court).
• Family courts, traffic courts, and small claims courts (for minor civil cases).

Police in Canada

Maintain public safety and enforce laws.

Police types:

• RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police):

  • Enforce federal laws.
  • Act as provincial police in all provinces and territories except Ontario and Quebec.
• Provincial police: Ontario and Quebec.
• Municipal police - In cities and towns.

Citizens have the right to:

• Ask the police for help.
• Question police conduct (most departments have a complaint process).

Legal Help

Lawyers assist with legal issues and court representation.

Legal aid is available (free or low-cost) in most communities if you cannot afford a lawyer.