How Canada's justice system protects rights and applies the law equally to all.
The rule of law
- The law applies equally to everyone — including the police, governments, and public officials.
- Every person charged with a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a fair trial.
- Habeas corpus protects against unlawful detention.
Courts
- The Supreme Court of Canada is the final court of appeal.
- Federal courts and provincial/territorial courts handle most cases.
- Judges are appointed and are independent of the government.
Police
- The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is the federal police force and also serves as the provincial force in most provinces and territories.
- Ontario and Quebec have their own provincial police forces; many cities have municipal forces.
- Police keep people safe and enforce the law; you can question police about their service or conduct.