Canada's justice system guarantees everyone due process under the law and, in criminal matters, rests on the presumption of innocence — everyone is innocent until proven guilty. Understanding the system means knowing the principles behind the laws, the structure of the courts, the role of the police, and how to find legal help.
FoundationsPrinciples of justice
The heritage behind Canada's legal system includes freedom under the law, the rule of law, democratic principles and due process — the idea that government must respect every legal right a person holds under the law. Power is divided so that no single body holds it all: elected representatives make the laws, the courts settle disputes, and the police enforce them.
Remember this
- The system guarantees everyone due process under the law.
- It is founded on the presumption of innocence in criminal matters — innocent until proven guilty.
- The law applies to everyone, including judges, politicians and the police.
The courtsHow courts are structured
The Supreme Court of Canada sits at the top as the country's highest court, and the Federal Court of Canada handles matters involving the federal government. Most provinces run both a trial court — sometimes styled the Court of Queen's Bench or the Supreme Court — and an appeal court.
Beneath them sit specialized courts for everyday matters: provincial courts for lesser offences, plus family courts, traffic courts and small claims courts, which handle civil cases over small sums.
Law enforcementThe role of the police
The police keep people safe and enforce the law, and you can ask them for help in many situations. Policing is shared across levels of government: Ontario and Quebec have their own provincial police forces, and municipal police departments operate in all provinces.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) enforce federal laws across Canada and act as provincial police everywhere except Ontario and Quebec, and in some municipalities too. Should you have concerns, you may question the police about their conduct or service — nearly every force has a process for raising concerns and seeking action.
SupportGetting legal help
Lawyers can advise you on legal problems and represent you in court. If paying for one is beyond you, most communities provide legal aid free or at low cost.
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