Why is the legal case Little Sisters Book significant in the context of the 'Prescribed by Law' requirement?

The legal case of Little Sisters Book and Art Emporium v. Canada (Minister of Justice) is significant in the context of the 'Prescribed by Law' requirement because it highlights the necessity for laws to be clear, accessible, and formulated in written form to ensure that individuals can understand the legal boundaries and consequences of their actions. The case revolved around challenges to Canadian customs laws regarding the importation of materials deemed obscene, raising issues about the clarity and specificity of those laws.

The 'Prescribed by Law' principle, which is derived from the rule of law and international human rights standards, requires that any limitation on rights must be based on law that is accessible and understandable to the public. In Little Sisters, the Supreme Court emphasized that vague or poorly defined laws in practice could fail to meet this criterion, thereby infringing upon individual rights.

This case serves as a poignant illustration of the importance of having a robust legislative framework that is available and known in advance, ensuring that individuals can operate within a clearly defined legal context. Thus, it underlines the necessity of written law as a cornerstone of justice and legal accountability.