What does a charter analysis begin with in the context of a law?

A charter analysis begins with assessing the purpose and effect of the law because this foundational step allows for a thorough examination of how the law interacts with the rights and freedoms protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Understanding both the intended objectives of the legislation and its practical consequences is crucial in determining whether it infringes on any charter rights.

When evaluating the purpose, courts look at the legislative intent—what the law strives to achieve. The effect is equally important since it involves evaluating how the law operates in practice and its impact on individuals or groups. This comprehensive assessment is vital for identifying whether a given law is justifiable under section 1 of the Charter, which allows for certain limitations on rights if they can be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.

Other options, while they may provide context or contribute to a broader evaluation of a law, do not serve as the starting point for a charter analysis. Financial implications, public support, and potential amendments focus on different aspects that do not directly address the charter’s evaluations of rights and freedoms. Thus, the analysis emphasizes the need to initially understand the link between the law’s purpose, its effects, and the implications for charter rights.