If you decide to immigrate to Canada and reside there long-term, it is essential to understand the Canadian legal system to improve your quality of life and protect your rights. Canada is a country with a sound legal system that values human rights and promotes democracy and freedom. Both the federal government and provinces have human rights laws to protect individuals who may face discrimination based on race, gender, color, disability, or sexual orientation. If you are unable to find work, housing, or access restaurants and hotels due to these reasons, you have the right to file a complaint with the federal or provincial human rights commission. Racial violence, violence against children and spouses, and threats of violence are all illegal in Canada. If you or your children experience such illegal treatment, you should report it to the police.
Legal Knowledge for Studying in Canada
As a resident of Canada, you should:
1. Familiarize yourself with and comply with the law; ignorance of the law is not an excuse for breaking it;
2. Respect the "integrity system" and adhere to it voluntarily. For example, when purchasing a newspaper from a vending machine, take only one copy;
3. Report any crimes immediately;
4. If summoned to court as a juror, you should fulfill your legal duty.
Legal Knowledge about the Police
The police include:
1. Federal police, namely the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Their responsibility is to enforce criminal and provincial laws across the country (except in Ontario and Quebec) and provide police services to Yukon, Northwest Territories, and 191 cities.
2. Provincial police, Ontario and Quebec have their own police forces. The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary shares policing duties in Newfoundland with the RCMP.
3. Municipal police, most urban centers have municipal police or hire provincial police services. In case of emergencies, you can dial 911. The non-emergency contact numbers for the RCMP, provincial police, and municipal police are listed in the blue pages of the phone book.
Police and You
Residents of Canada should know:
1. The police exist to protect and serve the public, and they are separate from the military.
2. No one can enter your residence unless they can prove their identity as a police officer and present a warrant that states your name or address.
If you are arrested:
1. The police must show their identification and inform you that you are being arrested and the reason for the arrest. They must inform you of your rights at the time of arrest.
2. Maintain a cooperative, rational, and calm demeanor.
3. Make eye contact with the police. Avoiding eye contact may lead them to suspect you are hiding something.
4. Besides providing your name and address, you are not required to answer police questions or discuss the incident unless a lawyer is present. If you do not have a lawyer, the police will provide you with the contact number for legal aid.
5. You have the right to make one phone call.
6. The police cannot detain you for more than twenty-four hours without charging you and bringing you to court. The police have the right to take photographs, fingerprint you, and test drivers for alcohol consumption.
Legal Knowledge about Litigation
Individuals or entities in Canada typically resolve disputes that cannot be settled through legal means by suing each other. Although litigation can be costly and troublesome, if you are forced to sue, you should seek a lawyer immediately. Your lawyer must represent your interests only, provide you with objective advice, and keep all information you provide confidential. Discuss fees during your first meeting.
Legal Knowledge about Legal Aid
If you can prove that you cannot afford legal fees, you can apply for legal aid from government-funded service agencies.
