Intro to the Charter of Rights & Freedoms Rights vs Freedoms Intro to the Charter of Rights & Freedoms

Rights vs Freedoms Rights Freedoms A moral or legal entitlement to obtain something or act in a certain way Rights have limitations Rights are not absolute The power to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint The implication that no one will interfere with what you do Rights vs Freedoms

Rights are not Absolute! Although you have rights, there are often limits placed on these rights. Why is this? Because rights can clash/conflict. When it is impossible to honour two important rights, limits are placed on one or both rights. The goal of the Charter is to achieve balance. Rights are not Absolute!

What is the difference between a right and a freedom? A legal right is something that cannot be given to you one time and then denied another. If you have a legal right, then some other person has the duty to see that this right is honoured. A freedom implies that no one will interfere with what you want to do. Unlike a right, no one has the duty to oversee or enforce this freedom. What is the difference between a right and a freedom?

Limits on Rights & Freedoms Freedom of Speech You risk being sued for damages if you say or write untrue statements about a person and thereby ruin their reputation. You can be charged with a criminal offence if you intentionally promote hatred towards an identifiable group. You are required to follow school rules and use appropriate language. Limits on Rights & Freedoms

Limits on Rights & Freedoms Right not to be Searched Police Officers have the right to search vehicles if they have reasonable ground to believe a law is being broken. Customs officials have the right to search luggage. A principal has the right to search lockers and students if safety is threatened. Limits on Rights & Freedoms