A Look at Canada

The Canadian Justice System

The Canadian justice system guarantees everyone legal rights and equality. Everyone has equal access to the justice system.

Canadian laws are the written rules intended to guide people in our society. They are made by elected government representatives. The police and the courts enforce the laws.

Canadians have rights and freedoms that are protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms through the justice system. Some of the rights and freedoms protected by the justice system include:

• fundamental freedoms, such as freedom of religion, thought, belief, opinion and expression;
• legal rights, including the right to life, liberty and security of the person; and
• equality under the law. Every Canadian has an equal right to the protection and services of the police and the courts.

Getting legal help

Lawyers can help you with legal problems and act for you in court. If you cannot pay for a lawyer, there are legal aid services available free of charge or at low cost in most communities.