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Nov 21
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The 1902 Canadian Statutes Commission

Introduction to the Canadian Statutes Commission of 1902

The Establishment of the Statutes Commission

In 1902, the Canadian Government took a significant step by appointing the Statutes Commission. This initiative aimed to tackle the overwhelming complexity of public statutes that had accumulated over the years since Canada’s confederation. The Commission was tasked with the crucial job of revising, classifying, and consolidating these laws to streamline the legal framework in Canada, making it more accessible and efficient for both legal professionals and the public.

Objectives of the Statutes Commission

The main goal of the Statutes Commission was to provide clarity and organization to the myriad of laws that had developed. Over the years, many statutes had been enacted without a coherent system in place, leading to redundancies and legal ambiguities. By consolidating these statutes, the Commission aimed to enhance legal clarity and ensure that citizens could easily understand the laws governing them.

The Impact of the 1902 Commission

The Transformation of Canada's Legal Framework

The work undertaken by the Statutes Commission laid the foundation for a more organized approach to Canadian law. Their efforts led to the publication of revised consolidated statutes that helped eliminate conflicts and outdated laws. This systematic approach was essential in reinforcing the rule of law in Canada and making legal processes more transparent.

Long-Term Benefits for Canadian Legislation

The lasting impact of the Statutes Commission’s initiatives can be observed in the legal infrastructure of Canada today. Their revisions paved the way for manageable legislative processes and provided a clearer understanding of public laws, positively influencing how laws are interpreted and enforced in Canada.

Fun Fact

The Legacy of the Statutes Commission

A fascinating outcome of the Statutes Commission's work is the establishment of the ongoing practice in Canada to routinely revise and consolidate statutes. This practice ensures that Canadian law remains relevant and accessible, reflecting the changing values and needs of society.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Canadian Legal History

For those interested in delving deeper into the evolution of Canadian law, consider reading "The History of Canadian Law" by Philip Girard and "Fairness and Justice: A Canadian Perspective" by Roy McMurtry. These texts provide insightful overviews of how Canada's legal system has developed over time.