Fundamentals of Canadian Law

Canada’s laws express the values and beliefs of Canadian society. They aim to protect individuals and provide stability for society as a whole. They also aim to make sure there is a peaceful way to settle disputes.

Many Canadians have come to Canada from other countries. Some of these countries have laws and legal systems that are different from Canada’s.

When people come to Canada, they bring ideas about the law that they learned in their own countries. They may be surprised to find there are many differences here. It is important for newcomers to know that the laws are not the same, and to understand the differences.

Where do Canadians get their ideas about the law?'

Canada’s legal system and political system first came from Britain. We also brought our ideas of personal rights and freedoms from Britain. In Quebec, parts of the legal system came from France.