The Justice System: Study Notes

This short chapter covers the principles behind Canada’s courts and laws. It is easy to master, and a few ideas explain most of the questions.

Key facts to know

• The justice system guarantees everyone due process under the law.
• Criminal matters rest on the presumption of innocence: everyone is innocent until proven guilty.
• Due process means the government must respect all the legal rights a person is entitled to under the law.
• Canada’s legal system is based on the rule of law, freedom under the law, democratic principles and due process.
• Laws are written rules made by elected representatives. Courts settle disputes and the police enforce the laws.
• The law applies to everyone, including judges, politicians and the police.
• The blindfolded figure of Lady Justice symbolizes that laws are applied impartially, based only on the facts.
• Quebec uses the Civil Code for private law, while the other provinces use English common law.

These notes summarize the official Discover Canada guide in our own words. Always check the current edition of the guide on canada.ca. Discover Canada Prep is independent and not affiliated with IRCC.