(R.S.C., 1985, c. S-26, amended December 18, 2019)
BackLatest Version in WIPO LexDetailsDetailsYear of Version2025DatesAmended up to:December 18, 2019Assented:April 8, 1875Type of Text
Framework Laws
Subject Matter
Enforcement of IP and Related Laws
Notes This consolidated version of the Supreme Court Act incorporates amendments introduced by "An Act to amend the Criminal Code, the Youth Criminal Justice Act and other Acts and to make consequential amendments to other Acts (S.C. 2019, c. 25)", which entered into force on December 18, 2019.
The Supreme Court Act establishes the Supreme Court of Canada, which is the highest appellate court in the country. While the Act itself does not contain substantive intellectual property (IP) provisions, it has an important connection to IP through its judicial role:
- Jurisdiction over IP cases: The Supreme Court hears appeals from lower courts and provincial appellate courts in matters involving copyright, patent, trademark, and other IP issues.
- Precedent-setting authority: Decisions by the Supreme Court on IP cases are binding and shape the interpretation and application of IP statutes, including the Copyright Act, Patent Act, and Trademarks Act.
- Procedural framework: The Act provides the structure for appeals, ensuring consistency and uniformity in IP jurisprudence across Canada.
The Supreme Court Act itself does not define IP rights or offences; its connection to IP is procedural and judicial, enabling the enforcement and clarification of IP law at the highest level.