The Supreme Court on Trial - Judicial Activism or Democratic Dialogue (Electronic book text)

The Supreme Court of Canada has been accused of allowing criminals to go free; of permitting tobacco companies to advertise; of being too sympathetic to Aboriginal people; and of usurping democracy on abortion and gay rights. Some critics claim that the nine unelected judges on Canada's highest Court have used the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to impose their own views on public policy over those of elected governments. In a clear, engaging, and thought-provoking manner, Roach strips away the rhetoric that has characterized much of the debate over judicial activism. As counsel who has appeared before the Court in several of its most important Charter cases, he provides unique insights into the work of the Court. As a leading professor of Constitutional and Criminal Law, he offers an informed assessment of the Court's decisions and their impact on our legal and political system. In short, The Supreme Court on Trial makes an important contribution to understanding the role of the Court and the Charter in our democracy.