The Canadian Foundation for Legal Research

La Fondation canadienne pour la recherche juridique

The Canadian Foundation for Legal Research is a non-profit organization committed to enhancing and contributing to Canada's legal community through the funding and promotion of research about the law, legal science, and justice reform.

History

Established in 1959 (though some sources indicate 1957) by a group of Canadian Bar leaders including Brian Dickson, Renault St. Laurent, Stuart Thom, Donald McInnes, Ross McKimmie, and Walter Owen, the Foundation aimed to address the lack of Canadian-based legal research. At that time, much of the legal literature was derived from England and the U.S.

Mission

The Foundation's mission is to support practical legal research and analysis, providing Canadian lawyers and judges with the latest information necessary for their work. Its grants focus on research topics relevant to Canadian legal professionals and those involved in the justice system, encompassing areas such as criminal law, evidence and procedure, contract law, family law, torts, and the administration of justice.

Contributions

For over 60 years, the Foundation has played a crucial role in the Canadian legal landscape by facilitating the creation of top-quality legal writing and research. It has managed its resources effectively to maintain and grow its working capital, ensuring ongoing contributions to legal research.

Impact

The Canadian Foundation for Legal Research complements other sources of legal research funding from law foundations and governments. While much of such funding is directed towards what the law should be, the Foundation focuses on understanding the current state of the law, thereby providing essential support to busy legal practitioners and the judiciary.