Each Canadian province and territory is responsible for their own health laws and services. Canadian mental health acts have core similarities, but there are clinically significant differences among them.

 

All laws in Canada must conform to the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which is part of our constitution. In most Canadian jurisdictions, apart from the province of Quebec, legislation is based on common law; in Quebec, it is based on a civil code, as is the case in France.

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Here we've compiled the Acts and related legislation from each province and territory. We strive to keep our list updated, but you should check with the relevant jurisdiction for any updates.

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The acts can be confusing for those with no legal training so you might wish to google how the Mental Health Act works in your province/territory, google the Guide to the Mental Health Act or its equivalent