Want to check the law yourself? Here is how Ontario's statutes and regulations fit together, and how to find the current version.

Most Ontario law is written in statutes (Acts passed by the Legislature) and regulations (detailed rules made under an Act).
Start with the Act, then check its regulations. Use Ontario's free e-Laws website, make sure you are reading the current consolidated version, and watch for sections that aren't in force yet.

A statute sets out the main rights, duties and powers. For example, the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 sets out tenants' and landlords' rights.
A regulation fills in details, such as forms, fees, exemptions and calculations. For example, the rent increase guideline rules are partly in regulations.
Federal laws, such as the Criminal Code, are on the Justice Laws website.
Courts interpret statutes. Free decisions are on CanLII.
Have a question about how a law applies to you? NEO can explain your options. Call 647-200-3526 or toll-free 888-519-2435, email info@neolegalservices.com, or book a free consultation.
Read next: Section 35: Aboriginal and Treaty Rights and the Duty to Consult
General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 16 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.
Photos from Unsplash: A stack of books sitting on top of a wooden table · a close-up of a book.
This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.
Not sure where you stand? A licensed paralegal can look at your documents and tell you your options.
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