Learn the law
The laws in Manitoba may be quite different from the laws in other countries. For more information visit Manitoba Justice.
Community Legal Education Association
The non-profit organization has general information on the law. They also make referrals to lawyers. They offer a free telephone service that allows people to talk to a lawyer over the phone. They also have training programs to familiarize people with the laws in Manitoba and Canada.
Find a lawyer
If you need help finding a lawyer or need general legal information phone the Law Phone-in and Lawyer Referral Services at 943-2305. Also, lawyers are listed in the Yellow Pages phone book.
Legal Aid Manitoba
If you need legal advice and can't afford a lawyer, you may qualify for Legal Aid. If you qualify, you may get free legal services. Legal Aid will assess your income and assets to determine whether you qualify for assistance.
Your legal rights
The Manitoba Human Rights Commission enforces the Manitoba Human Rights Code. It investigates claims of discrimination in matters under provincial jurisdiction, such as education and health.
The Canadian Human Rights Commission enforces the Canadian Human Rights Act and ensures compliance with the Employment Equity Act. It investigates claims of discrimination in matters under federal jurisdiction, such as the RCMP or Canada Post.
Interpreters
You may feel more comfortable if you take an interpreter with you when you seek legal advice. The International Centre has a Language Bank. Other interpreters are listed in the Yellow Pages phone book under Translators and Interpreters.
Some Canadian laws
Some laws you should be aware of:
Youth and the law
In Canada, youth who commit a crime are held accountable for their actions. However, they are not dealt with in the same way as adult offenders. This is because they may not have an adult's understanding of their crime. They are also more likely than adult offenders to be reformed and become law-abiding citizens. The law for young offenders is called the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
Children's rights
In Canada, you are required by law to properly care for your children. Police, doctors, teachers and children's aid officials will act when children are being abused. This includes any form of harm and abuse – physical, psychological or sexual. All forms of child abuse are severe crimes. In serious cases of abuse, children can be taken away from their parents.
Domestic violence
Manitoba has a "zero tolerance" policy about domestic abuse. This means that violence in any form (physical, emotional, sexual) against women or children is a crime. Abuse towards partners (spouse, common-law spouse, girlfriend, boyfriend, or other intimate partner, past or present) is against the law. See Manitoba Justice - Domestic Violence.
The role of police
The police are part of the community and are accountable to the public. They may be either men or women. They are trained to serve and protect the public, including you. Police operate within strict regulations and follow established procedures. Canadians expect honesty and fairness from the police.
Calling the police
Most cities and towns have an emergency number for the police. Call this number if you or someone else is hurt or in danger, or if you see a crime taking place. In most parts of Canada, the emergency number is 911. Emergency numbers are always printed inside the front cover of the telephone book.
What if you are questioned by a police officer?
What if you are arrested by a police officer?
24-hour phone help lines
The following are some free services that answer their phone 24 hours a day for information, support, counselling or shelter. You will find a list of emergency services on a front page of your phone book.
