Cory Morgan: Self-Defence Isn’t Vigilantism—It’s an Integral Right of Canadians

Eddie Maurice, accompanied by his wife, Jessica, waves to supporters outside the court in Okotoks, Alta., on March 9, 2018. All charges were dropped against Maurice, who wounded a trespasser on his rural property with a ricochet from a warning shot. The Canadian Press/Jeff McIntosh

Commentary

When it comes to the right to defend oneself and one’s property in Canada, the nation doesn’t need to change the laws. It must change its attitude. Sections 34 and 35 of the Criminal Code make it clear that citizens may use force to defend themselves and their property. While many Canadians have been criminally charged for defending themselves with force, convictions are rare. The process is the punishment, however, as a person’s life can be put on hold while they navigate the legal system to exonerate themselves.