1. Understanding how the law is classified
Categories of Law
Understanding how the law is classified

2. i.e. The right to own property
Substantive Law
Consists of all laws that list the rights and obligations (duties) of each person in society
i.e. The right to own property
*In Canada this is represented by common-law decisions and statute laws passed by government

3. Procedural Law
Outlines the steps (Processes!) involved in protecting the rights given under substantive law
i.e. If someone is infringing on your property rights, procedural law outlines the step to take to stop the damage and get compensation

4. Public Law
Controls the relationship between individuals and the government; deals with laws as they apply to all individuals
i.e. If you are committing a crime, you are violating your social contract with the government

5. Private (Civil) Law
Outlines the legal relationship between private citizens and between citizens and organizations
i.e. You slip in the icy parking lot of wal-mart and sue the company for damages. Or, you slip in your friend’s driveway and sue him/her for damages

6. Types of Public Law Criminal Law Constitutional Law Administrative Law
-The Criminal Code, Youth Criminal and Justice Act, and The Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
Crown attorney (society) vs. the defendant
The Constitution Act (1982)
Division of powers
Liquor control board, CRTC, etc

7. Types of Private (Civil) Law
Family Law
Contract Law
Tort Law
Property Law
Labour Law
Child/spousal support, custody, etc
Legally binding agreements
Deals with wrongs, i.e. Negligence
Use, enjoyment of, and rental of property
Relationships between employers and employees