Justice System Flashcards
What does the Canadian justice system guarantee everyone?
Due process under the law
Due process ensures that the government respects all legal rights a person is entitled to.
What is the foundational principle of the Canadian judicial system in criminal matters?
Presumption of innocence
This means everyone is considered innocent until proven guilty.
What are the key components of Canada’s legal system?(4)
- Rule of law
- Freedom under the law
- Democratic principles
- Due process
Who creates the laws in Canada?
Elected representatives
Laws are written rules intended to guide society.
What roles do the courts and police play in the Canadian justice system?
- Courts settle disputes
- Police enforce the laws
Who does the law in Canada apply to?
Everyone, including judges, politicians, and the police
This ensures that no one is above the law.
What is the purpose of laws in Canada? (3)
- Provide order in society
- Offer a peaceful way to settle disputes
- Express the values and beliefs of Canadians
What is the highest court in Canada?
The Supreme Court of Canada
It serves as the final court of appeal in the country.
What does the Federal Court of Canada handle?
Matters concerning the federal government
It deals with issues related to federal law and government actions.
What types of courts exist in most provinces?
Appeal court and trial court
These may also be referred to as the Court of Queen’s Bench or the Supreme Court.
What are some examples of specialized courts in Canada?
Provincial courts, family courts, traffic courts, small claims courts
These courts handle specific types of cases, including lesser offences and civil cases involving small sums.
What is the primary role of the police?
To keep people safe and to enforce the law
They respond to various situations including crimes, accidents, and missing persons.
What should you do if you need help from the police?
Ask the police for help in various situations
This includes accidents, theft, assault, witnessing a crime, or reporting a missing person.
What are the different types of police forces in Canada?
Provincial police forces, municipal police departments, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
RCMP enforces federal laws and serves as provincial police in most provinces and territories.
True or False: The RCMP only enforces laws at the federal level.
False
The RCMP also serves as provincial police in all provinces and territories except Ontario and Quebec.
What can you do if you have concerns about police conduct?
Question the police about their service or conduct
Most police forces have a process for addressing public concerns.
What is the role of lawyers in legal matters?
Help with legal problems and act for you in court
They provide representation and legal advice.
What options are available if you cannot pay for a lawyer?
Legal aid services
These services may be available free of charge or at a low cost in most communities.
What is the highest honour available to Canadians?
The Victoria Cross (V.C.)
Awarded for conspicuous bravery, valour, self-sacrifice, or devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy.
How many Canadians have been awarded the Victoria Cross since 1854?
96 Canadians
This includes recipients from various conflicts and wars.
Who was the first Canadian to be awarded the Victoria Cross?
Lieutenant Alexander Roberts Dunn
He served in the British Army during the Charge of the Light Brigade at Balaclava in 1854.
In what conflict did Captain Billy Bishop earn the Victoria Cross?
First World War
He served in the Royal Flying Corps and later became an honorary Air Marshal.
Who was the first black man to be awarded the Victoria Cross?
Able Seaman William Hall
He was awarded for his role in the Siege of Lucknow during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
Which Canadian earned the Victoria Cross while leading an attack on Casa Berardi in Italy?
Captain Paul Triquet
He was later promoted to Brigadier.
What was Corporal Filip Konowal’s notable achievement?
He showed exceptional courage in the Battle of Hill 70 in 1917
He was the first member of the Canadian Corps not born in the British Empire to receive the V.C.
Who was the last Canadian to receive the Victoria Cross to date?
Lieutenant Robert Hampton Gray
He was killed while bombing a Japanese warship in August 1945.
Fill in the blank: The Victoria Cross is awarded for _______.
[conspicuous bravery, valour, self-sacrifice, or devotion to duty]
These actions must occur in the presence of the enemy.
True or False: The Victoria Cross has been awarded to more than 100 Canadians.
False
Only 96 Canadians have received the V.C. since 1854.
What role did Lieutenant Alexander Roberts Dunn play in the Charge of the Light Brigade?
He served as a Lieutenant in the British Army
His actions during this battle led to him being awarded the V.C.
