Does The Charter Apply To Everyone?

The Charter applies to all governments – provincial, federal, and territorial, and not to private individuals, businesses and organizations. 

The Charter is meant to protect all Canadian citizens. Some Charter rights apply to non-citizens (such as legal and equality rights). The Charter does generally not apply to corporations. However, the Supreme Court of Canada has held that section 8 – the right against unreasonable search and seizure – and section 11(b) – the right to a timely trial – can apply to corporations.