Can a thumbs up emoji create legally binding obligations? The Supreme Court of Canada may consider this in the case of Achter Land & Cattle Ltd. v South West Terminal Ltd. The Supreme Court of Canada is considering a leave to appeal application filed by Achter Land & Cattle Ltd. (Achter … [Read more...]
The Evolution of Canadian Law
Since Canada became a country in 1867, Canadian law has evolved from that of a British colony to a sovereign state, including major developments like the Charter, the Criminal Code and the Divorce Act. EDITOR’S NOTE This article was first published in LawNow on May 5, 2017. It was reviewed … [Read more...]
Annexation and the Use of Force
Annexation is one state forcibly acquiring another state’s territory, usually through a treaty or use of force. It is illegal under international law. Recently, there has been increased discussion in the media about annexation. Many are now asking what this term really means and how it comes … [Read more...]
Understanding Parole and its Restrictions: Why someone’s release shouldn’t necessarily alarm you
Parole is when an offender integrates back into society after serving their jail sentence, and includes an extensive review process and decision from the parole board. Media reports on crime often emphasize when an offender is eligible for parole and subsequently cover the results of the parole … [Read more...]
Provincial Directives for Colleges and Universities: Government overreach?
It looks good on paper: protect student mental health, fight against racism, and ensure that costs are transparent. But is it overreach? Bill 166 Explained In May of 2024, the Ontario government amended its Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Act with Bill 166 (the Strengthening … [Read more...]
Streamlined Trials in Alberta: A tale of four cases
The Alberta Court of King's Bench introduced streamlined trials in 2024 to replace summary trials, and four cases help us interpret the new rules. This article summarizes the status of streamlined trials in Alberta. Streamlined trials were introduced in Alberta at the beginning of 2024. They … [Read more...]
Non-Disclosure Agreements in Canada: The future in wake of Hockey Canada’s scandal
Canadians have closely followed the bombshell criminal charges against five members of Team Canada’s 2018 World Juniors hockey team. The case is scheduled for trial in 2025, seven years after the alleged sexual assault. Following the incident, the complainant reached a settlement with Hockey … [Read more...]
Why is Canada a Bilingual Country?
Canada has two official languages: French and English. We always wonder why. EDITOR'S NOTE A version of this article first appeared in LawNow in 2019. It has been reviewed for legal accuracy in 2024 by the author. Canada’s two colonizing peoples are the French and the British. They … [Read more...]
Canada’s Proposed Artificial Intelligence and Data Act
In 2022, Canada proposed the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act to attempt to regulate and promote the responsible use of artificial intelligence, though the framework is not yet law. Canada has become a leader in developing and using artificial intelligence (AI). AI has become increasingly … [Read more...]
Bill C-92’s Journey to the SCC
In February 2024, the Supreme Court of Canada decided Bill C-92, which allows Indigenous communities to exercise control over child and family services, is constitutional in its entirety. Reconciliation is the responsibility of every Canadian. The Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision on Bill … [Read more...]
