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.
Legislation is made up of two main parts:
Always check whether an Act has been amended, repealed, or replaced using the current consolidations available online.
🔎 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.
