NCJ Number
155241
Date Published
1993
Length
38 pages
Annotation
This pamphlet is intended to inform Canadian citizens about the need for, sources of, and the implementation of Canada's law and justice system.
Abstract
In focusing on the nature of law, the first section discusses why law is needed, the goals of the law, and the system of law and justice as manifested in both public and private law. A section on the sources of Canadian law considers English law and the Code Napoleon, law reform, the making of new laws, the Constitution, the Federal system, and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The latter is discussed under the topics of fundamental freedoms, democratic rights, mobility rights, legal rights, equality rights, language rights, minority language educational rights, aboriginal rights, and other rights. Another section focuses on the law in action. This topic encompasses the court structure, civil and criminal cases, court procedures, administrative boards and tribunals, the Young Offenders Act, and obtaining legal advice. A discussion of the citizen's role in the administration of the law considers jury duty, testimony in court, and the importance of knowing the law. The concluding section addresses the future of the law in Canada. It advises that as the behavioral and attitudinal values of a society change, so must the law reflect these changes, since the people must decide what laws will govern their behavior.