Changes to Law

Question 1

Who has an impact on changes to Canadian law? Describe their roles.

Answer 1

Lawyers: bring questions of law to court to create change

Social action groups: seek changes to laws that they consider unfair to members of Canadian society (protests, petitions)

Industry groups and other stakeholders: meet with government decision-makers in an effort to present their opinions on the direction of public policy

Question 2

How do legislators at the federal, provincial, and territorial levels respond to recommended changes?

Answer 2

They respond by introducing new laws or changing old ones.

Question 3

Who elects the lawmakers in Canada?

Answer 3

Ultimately, it is the people of Canada that elect the lawmakers. We decide what we want from the law, and then make sure it reflects those wishes.

Question 4

List 6 factors that can drive changes to law.

Answer 4

1. Demographic shifts/changes
2. Technological innovation (laws around AI)
3. National emergencies (COVID-19)
4. Shifts in morals and values (abortion, gun laws, slavery)
5. Individual and collective actions by advocates/activists (protests, petitions)
6. Legal cases (rule of precedence; R. v. Oakes)