Know Your Charter Rights

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is a bill of rights that forms part of Canada’s constitution. It protects individual rights and freedoms from unreasonable and unjustified government action. The Charter is different from human rights statutes, which protect individuals from discrimination by the government and private actors (for information on human rights regimes, click here).

The links below provide a guide on how the Charter works and what it protects. Information on how to make a Charter claim is located here. 

1. What are my Charter rights and freedoms?

2. Who has to comply with the Charter?

3. Who can claim protection under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms?

4. Do I have a Charter claim?

5. How do I make a Charter complaint?

6. How do I name the right party?

7. Can other parties or groups get involved in my claim?

8. What remedy can I get?

9. How long do I have to make a Charter claim?

10. How long will my Charter claim take?

11. How can I find a lawyer to take my case?

ACLRC's work on Access to Justice would not be possible without the assistance of our dedicated volunteers, as well as our articling and summer students.