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Statutory Law

Statutory Law

Canadian statutes and regulations are key sources of primary law. They establish the rules that courts interpret and apply. This section outlines how to find, read, and interpret legislation at both the federal and provincial levels.


Understanding Legislation

Legislation is made up of two main parts:

  • Statutes (Acts) – Laws passed by Parliament or a provincial legislature.
  • Regulations – Detailed rules made under the authority of a statute.

Always check whether an Act has been amended, repealed, or replaced using the current consolidations available online.


Federal Law

  • Justice Laws Website – The official source for federal statutes and regulations, maintained by the Department of Justice. Includes consolidated and historical versions, plus tables of public Acts.
  • LEGISinfo – Tracks the progress of federal bills, including readings, committee reports, and Royal Assent information.
  • Supreme Court of Canada Decisions (Lexum) – Access to full-text decisions interpreting federal law.

Ontario Law


Tips for Working with Statutes

🔎 Start with definitions: Most Acts include a “Definitions” section early in the text. It clarifies how key terms are used.

📅 Check consolidation dates: Ensure you’re reading the most recent version of the statute or regulation.

⚖️ Use annotations: Databases like Westlaw Edge Canada and Lexis+ Canada provide annotated versions linking cases that interpret specific provisions.