Under the law, most people in Canada have certain legal rights established by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, commonly called the Charter. These include the right to liberty, equality, freedom of religion, freedom of expression, freedom to associate with a group, and to be presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Contrary to what many people think, these rights only protect someone from the government or a government agent, and not from private citizens or businesses. The Charter is often used in court to challenge a law or a practice.

If you think your rights have been violated by a law or by the actions of a government employee or agency, and you require legal advice, contact a lawyer.

To view the Charter, visit Canada’s Justice Laws website.

								
You now have 3 options:
								

									
More answers about Government and The Justice System
									
Master List: 2,500 Legal Answers
																													
																		
Government Links