Unit 2: Section 1: Workbook 5: Canada's Justice System


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Your list of laws from Get Focused should remind you that there are many laws in place in Canada. This list should also remind you that it is important to understand laws so that you do not break a law unknowingly.

However, imagine if there were no laws. What if there were no speed limits on highways, no minimum age for driving, no consequences for graffiti, or no laws against bullying or assault? You probably can think of many situations in which not having laws could make life very different, maybe even chaotic.

Laws ensure that all Canadians are protected.
 
Below are some key ideas of the justice system in Canada.

  • the impartiality of judges
  • the judicial branch makes decisions independently of government and popular opinion
  • laws should be executed swiftly
  • hearsay cannot be used against a person; evidence is required
  • evidence must be considered carefully
  • consequences are meant to be a deterrence to crime and to protect the rights of citizens
  • all citizens have the right to life, liberty, and security of person


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