Constitutional Law and The Charter

An understanding of the historical-socio-political context and development of Canada, and Canada's Constitution is significant for any practitioner in law. Students will discuss the historical and political context for the formation of the Dominion of Canada, the division of powers of the English, French and Indigenous Peoples, the significance of the War of 1812 and the adoption of Lord Durham's report in the creation of Canada in 1867. Students will explore the rise of various Bills of Rights and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms in Canada and review significant cases of the Supreme Court of Canada, the insertion of the reasonable limitation provision and the Notwithstanding Clause to understand the scope and interpretation of the Charter.