Can You Sue the Government for Inaction Against Protestors?

Question from zaz, Can You Sue the Government for Inaction Against Protestors?

Answer from AI:

If you’ve been threatened by protestors in a mall and feel that the government failed to protect you, you might be wondering if you have legal recourse against the government for their inaction. In Canada, the ability to sue the government is a complex area of law that involves various statutes, case law, and principles of governmental immunity and liability.

Understanding Sovereign Immunity

Historically, the doctrine of sovereign immunity meant that the government could not be sued without its consent. However, this principle has evolved, and governments can now be held liable in certain circumstances.

Government Liability in Canada

In Canada, the ability to sue the government is governed by the Crown Liability and Proceedings Act. This act allows individuals to bring legal action against the federal government for torts committed by its servants or agents. Provincial governments have similar legislation that governs lawsuits against them.

Assessing Government Inaction

To determine whether you can sue the government for inaction against protestors, several factors must be considered:

• The nature of the threat: Was the threat specific and immediate, or was it more general in nature?
• The government’s duty of care: Did the government owe you a specific duty of care in the circumstances?
• Standard of care: What is the reasonable standard of care expected from the government in such situations?
• Causation: Can it be shown that the government’s inaction directly caused harm to you?

Challenges in Suing the Government

Suing the government for inaction can be challenging. The government may have various defenses available, such as:

• Policy decisions: Decisions based on policy considerations, such as resource allocation, are generally protected from liability.
• Discretionary functions: Actions that involve a high degree of discretion may also be protected.

Steps to Take

If you are considering legal action, here are some typical steps you might take:

1. Document the incident: Keep a detailed record of the events, including any threats made and the lack of response from authorities.
2. Report the threat: If you haven’t already, report the threat to the police and the mall security.
3. Seek legal advice: Consult with a lawyer who specializes in government liability to assess the strength of your case.
4. Consider alternative remedies: Explore other avenues for resolution, such as filing a complaint with the relevant government body or ombudsman.

Consulting a Legal Professional

Given the complexities involved in suing the government, it is highly recommended that you seek personalized legal advice. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, the likelihood of success in your case, and the best course of action.

For more information on the Crown Liability and Proceedings Act, you can visit the Justice Laws Website. Additionally, you may want to look into self-help resources or legal aid services in your province for guidance on how to proceed.

Remember, this information is not legal advice, and it’s important to consult with a legal professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.