Understanding your judicial system

For most Canadians, it is difficult to fully understand the workings of the justice system because of the various levels of government and stakeholders, which can be either provincial or federal.

The Canadian justice system

In order to understand the justice system, you must first become familiar with how the democratic system works in Canada. The Canadian democratic structure provides everyone with a trustworthy judicial system through the separation of powers.

The separation of powers

The role of judges

Despite the fact that everyone knows what a judge is, the conditions and requirements of their role are more complex than they seem.

The role of judges

The role of lawyers

The work of lawyers is not limited to pleading before a judge. Their services are needed in a host of other circumstances and professional settings.

The role of lawyers

Going to court

Courts allow disputes to be resolved objectively and fairly by examining the facts, evidence and case law.

Going to court

Alternatives to going to court

Several alternatives to courts exist to settle disputes and find solutions that are satisfactory to both opposing parties.

Alternatives to going to court