About Intervening in Court Cases

When a Canadian court hears a case that raises an issue pertinent to international human rights, CLAIHR may apply for status as an intervener (also known as amicus curiae or friend of the court).

A Canadian court grants intervener status to parties (usually organizations) whose knowledge, background, and/or experience provide a useful and unique perspective that may guide the court in considering the issues to be decided. As an intervener, CLAIHR provides focused, expert submissions relating to international human rights with the objective of assisting the court in developing and strengthening Canada’s protection of human rights. In most cases, CLAIHR will not take a position on the ultimate claims at issue, but rather provide perspective on international human rights issues triggered by the litigation.

CLAIHR has been an intervener at Divisional Court, provincial courts of appeal, Federal Court of Appeal, and at the Supreme Court of Canada. Occasionally, CLAIHR also files amicus submissions at foreign and international courts and tribunals, such as the US Supreme Court.

For more information, browse the list of cases in which CLAIHR has intervened.