The Supreme Court in Canada serves as the highest level of authority within the judiciary system across the country, allowing them to only service a limited number of cases, but still aid in all areas of law. Cases reach the Supreme Court through appeals, and allow for the case to first be heard through lower courts on city and provincial levels. Then the appellant’s request for their case to be heard at the highest level, and is chosen based on the significance of the case at a national level, allowing for them to ensure the fair usage of the law as well.
One of the most essential power held by members of the Supreme Court is the Judicial Review, a power that allows for them to evaluate the legitimacy of laws that may violate the Charter or Constitution, and further releases rulings to amend such to make it legal under the Canadian system. This power allows for the protection of people’s rights, by evaluating rulings that may possibly infringe on them.
Members of the SC, are from across all ten provinces and three territories. It is essential that the Supreme Court holds representatives from across Canada to represent the diverse and unique challenges and perspectives from different types of individuals in regards to their location, and taking such into account when formulating decisions, aiding in creating fair decisions for all Canadians. This geographic diversity allows for no alienation for provinces, and for everyone across Canada to feel united under the judiciary system.
Furthermore, these nine Supreme Court judges are chosen through a set list of candidates from the Prime Minister’s office who fulfill the requirement holding more than ten years of experience as a lawyer or judge, with a age limit of 75. Such appointments attempt to maintain independence of the judiciary and keep them free of political pressure, as they are not elected.
That’s your crash course on Canada’s Supreme Court! Civic engagement starts with knowledge, and learning small pieces and components of our democracy allows you to actively participate!
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