Presentation Transcript

1. Introduction to Canadian Law

   Laws versus rules
2. Introduction to Canadian Law Laws affect your lives each day, but do we really understand the justice system? How are laws developed in Canada, and how does our legal system work? Since laws affect every aspect of your lives, it is important for you to understand the law. Knowing your rights and responsibilities makes you a more informed citizen. What are laws? What are rules? Laws and Morality Why do we need laws? Why study law?
3. What is Law? Characteristics of Law Laws are a set of rules that are established and enforced by the government. Laws are mandatory – they apply to all members of society at all times. Laws involve a detailed system of consequences. Example: You are not allowed to drink alcohol if you are under the age of 19 years. How do we determine what becomes law? Laws reflect the values and beliefs of a society. Laws change as the values of society change.
4. What are Rules Characteristics of Rules Rules are not enforced by the courts. Rules are optional – you can “opt out” of them. Rules do not necessarily apply to everyone – it depends on the rule. Rules are restrictions that only apply to those who agree to adopt them for their own use. Example: You are not allowed to use cellphones in school. Note: If you break a rule, there still may be consequences for your actions; however, they are not as serious as when you break the law.
5. What is a Law? What is a Rule? No smoking on school property. Getting your homework in on time Wearing a seatbelt in the car. Not purchasing cigarettes under age 19. Not wearing your hat in class. No hunting for deer without a license. Turning off your cell phone in a movie theatre. Putting your garbage in the container at the bus stop. Not telling fortunes for money. Not swearing at your teachers.
6. Laws and Morality Although some laws reflect the moral values of society (the majority), the relationship between laws and morality can be very controversial. Consider: Doctor-assisted suicide Capital punishment (the death penalty) Abortion Corporal punishment Decriminalization/legalization of drugs Possession of child pornography For the most part, our laws reflect our collective community standards. Laws that are based on morality suggest the values, attitudes, and beliefs that Canadians hold in common. However, those whose opinions differ have the right to speak out (publically) and try to change the law.
7. Why do we need laws? Society needs laws to limit the behaviour of its citizens, so that we can all live peacefully together. How is this done? Through the creation of punishments, which are applied to those who break them. There are five (5) Functions of the Law: Establish Rules of Conduct Provide a System of Enforcement Protect Rights and Freedoms Protect Society Resolve Disputes
8. Why study law? Law is everywhere and controls a lot of what we do and how we behave. Law affects everyone, so it is important to understand what laws are and what our rights and responsibilities are. They study of law helps us to learn about out society’s values and beliefs.