This book provides an accessible introductory look at Canada’s law, surveying the nature, origins and operation of our legal system and addressing its role in a changing society. The book is intended for a broad readership, serving as introduction to Canada’s legal system for undergraduate studies, a basic primer for those undertaking the professional study of law, or as reference for those studying toward or working in law-related professions.   

 

This text provides an overview of Canada's legal system, focusing on common law jurisdictions, while placing it in a broader historical, social and political context. Extensively revised from the previous five editions, the book introduces readers to the concept of law, the history of Canada's legal systems, the sources of law, the doctrinal areas of law and procedure, the role of lawyers, judges and other personnel, the courts and other forms of dispute resolution and the prospects for the reform and change through the law.

 

The new edition has been updated to take into account key developments in such areas as human rights (including international developments), privacy law, the application of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Parliamentary Sovereignty and Responsible Government, the growing significance of international law in Canada, paralegals, pre-trial dispute resolution and contingency fees in the Canadian legal system, and on-line legal research.