Department of Justice, Canadian federal department
The Department of Justice is a federal government organization responsible for supporting the justice system and making laws fair and accessible across Canada. It employs over 5,000 staff members at offices throughout the country and provides services including child support guidance, victim assistance, and legal information to the public.
The department was created in 1868 following Canada's independence and developed from two separate law departments that had served the Ontario and Quebec regions. Over time it expanded significantly, establishing regional offices in cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver to better serve communities.
Many services are available online through Canada.ca, including tools to calculate child support, resources for crime victims, and guidance on family matters. Main offices are located in Ottawa, but you can also reach regional locations in various cities for local support and assistance.
Henrietta Bourque became the first woman to work in the department in 1939, marking an important milestone in its staffing history. Today the organization works to address overrepresentation of Indigenous people and Black Canadians in the criminal justice system through targeted strategies.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.