Charter Rights

You have rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

These include:

  • freedom of religion
  • freedom of expression
  • freedom to gather peacefully
  • right to vote
  • right to fair treatment in the justice system
  • right to equal treatment

Charter Rights do not apply to non-government actions such as actions taken by:

  • landlords
  • businesses
  • other individuals

These rights apply to actions of governments and any bodies that are part of a government. They also apply to government actions that are taken by someone even if they are not part of the government. They apply to the police, courts and other parts of the criminal justice system. They also apply to schools, social services and other government programs and services.

If your Charter Rights have been violated in a criminal case, this may be part of your defence. You can also sue the government for violating your Charter Rights and seek damages or compensation.

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Department of Justice Canada

PLEA gratefully acknowledges funding from the Department of Justice Canada for the development and printing of this resource.

Cree Nisga'a Clothing

The beautiful original artwork in this resource was created by Cree artist Linda Lavallee, owner of Cree Nisga’a Clothing.