New Brunswick · Grade 12
Law 120
New Brunswick’s Grade 12 social studies course, from Unit 1: Foundations of the Law to Unit 14: Property Law.
- Units
- 14
- Lessons
- 34
- Skills
- 115
- Provincial exam
- None
- Official curriculum
- curriculum.nbed.ca
Unit by unit
Every skill in the course, with its official code.
Unit 1 · 11 skills
Unit 1: Foundations of the Law
Law, Its Sources, and Types
The need for and purposes of law
I can explain why society needs law and the main purposes law serves.
Official code: 1.1
Historical sources of our laws
I can identify the historical sources of our laws and explain how law changes over time.
Official code: 1.2
Classifying laws by type
I can classify laws by their type.
Official code: 1.3
Government Powers and Making Laws
Division of governmental powers
I can explain how law-making power is divided among federal, provincial, and municipal governments.
Official code: 1.4
How laws are made in Canada
I can describe the process by which a bill becomes law in Canada.
Official code: 1.5
Rights, Human Rights Law, and the Indian Act
The Charter of Rights and Freedoms
I can analyse the Charter of Rights and Freedoms to identify Canadians' rights and freedoms.
Official code: 1.6
The NB Human Rights Act
I can analyse the NB Human Rights Act to identify the rights it protects.
Official code: 1.7
The structure of the Indian Act
I can describe the structure, powers, and jurisdiction of the Indian Act.
Official code: 1.8
Impact of the Indian Act on Aboriginal peoples
I can assess the impact of the Indian Act on the rights and freedoms of Aboriginal peoples.
Official code: 1.8.1
Applying human rights law to cases
I can apply human-rights law to reason through specific cases.
Official code: 1.9
The Structure of the Courts
Structure of federal and provincial courts
I can describe the structure and jurisdiction of Canada's federal and provincial courts.
Official code: 1.10
The official wording · 11 outcomes
- 1.1
- explain the need for and purposes of law
- 1.2
- identify the historical sources of our laws and explain how our laws evolved and continue to change
- 1.3
- classify laws by type
- 1.4
- identify and explain the division of federal, provincial and municipal governmental powers
- 1.5
- describe and explain the process by which laws are made in Canada
- 1.6
- analyse the Charter of Rights and Freedoms to identify the rights, freedoms and responsibilities of Canadian citizens
- 1.7
- analyse the NB Human Rights Act to identify the rights, freedoms and responsibilities of New Brunswick citizens
- 1.8
- identify and describe the structure, powers and jurisdiction of the Indian Act
- 1.8.1
- assess the impact of the Indian Act on the rights, freedoms and responsibilities of Aboriginal peoples
- 1.9
- apply their understanding of human rights law to specific cases
- 1.10
- identify and describe the structure, powers, and jurisdictions of the federal and provincial courts
Key ideas
Law is a set of enforceable rules that govern how people live together.
The Constitution divides law-making powers between the federal and provincial governments.
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (1982) is part of the Constitution and protects rights and freedoms.
Canada has a hierarchy of courts, provincial and federal.
Law provides order, resolves disputes, and protects people and property.
Watch out for
- Thinking law is only about punishment - it also resolves disputes and protects rights.
- Thinking one level of government makes all law - powers are divided.
- Thinking Charter rights are absolute - they are subject to reasonable limits.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Unit 2 · 14 skills
Unit 2: Criminal Law
Crime, Offences, and Parties
Why society criminalizes behaviour
I can analyse why a society decides to make certain behaviours criminal.
Official code: 2.1
Elements of a criminal offence
I can explain the elements of a criminal offence, including actus reus and mens rea.
Official code: 2.2
Parties to an offence
I can describe the roles of the various parties to a criminal offence.
Official code: 2.3
Indictable and summary offences
I can distinguish between indictable and summary conviction offences.
Official code: 2.4
The Criminal Justice Process
Police investigation and arrest
I can describe the legal process of police investigation and arrest.
Official code: 2.5
Officers of the court
I can explain the roles of the various officers of the court.
Official code: 2.6
Pre-trial and trial procedures
I can describe the main pre-trial and trial procedures in a criminal case.
Official code: 2.7
The jury system
I can describe the jury system and evaluate its strengths and weaknesses.
Official code: 2.8
Evidence and Defences
Rules of evidence
I can describe the rules of evidence and apply them to a case.
Official code: 2.9
Defences to criminal charges
I can describe and analyse standard defences to criminal charges.
Official code: 2.10
Sentencing, Appeals, and Parole
Sentencing alternatives
I can identify sentencing alternatives, including options for Aboriginal offenders, and when they fit.
Official code: 2.11
Avenues of appeal
I can describe the avenues of appeal after a criminal trial.
Official code: 2.12
Parole eligibility
I can explain what parole is and how parole eligibility is determined.
Official code: 2.13
Applying criminal law to cases
I can apply criminal law to analyse, prosecute, defend, and decide a case.
Official code: 2.14
The official wording · 14 outcomes
- 2.1
- analyze why society criminalizes certain behaviours
- 2.2
- identify and explain the elements of a criminal offence and of selected specific offences
- 2.3
- describe and explain the roles of the various parties to an offence
- 2.4
- distinguish between indictable and summary conviction offences
- 2.5
- describe the legal process of police investigation and arrest
- 2.6
- identify and explain the roles of the various officers of the court
- 2.7
- identify and describe pre-trial and trial procedures
- 2.8
- describe and evaluate the jury system
- 2.9
- describe and apply the rules of evidence to specific cases
- 2.10
- describe and analyze standard defences to criminal charges
- 2.11
- identify sentencing alternatives, including options for Aboriginal offenders, and suggest appropriate circumstances for their use
- 2.12
- identify and describe the different avenues of appeal
- 2.13
- demonstrate an understanding of parole eligibility
- 2.14
- apply the criminal law to analyze, prosecute, defend, and decide specific cases
Key ideas
Criminal law prohibits behaviour society considers seriously harmful or wrong.
Police investigate to gather evidence, sometimes needing a warrant to search.
Evidence must be relevant and admissible to be used in court.
Sentencing serves purposes like denunciation, deterrence, rehabilitation, and restorative justice.
Behaviour is criminalized to protect people, property, and public order.
Watch out for
- Thinking anything harmful is criminal - criminal law targets serious wrongs.
- Thinking police can search anytime - they usually need grounds or a warrant.
- Thinking any information can be used - only admissible evidence counts.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Unit 3 · 11 skills
Unit 3: Civil Law - Torts
Civil Law and Its Procedures
Civil vs criminal matters
I can distinguish civil from criminal matters and name the types of civil law.
Official code: 3.1
Civil court procedures
I can describe civil court procedures and contrast them with criminal procedure.
Official code: 3.2
Torts and Negligence
Torts and the purposes of tort law
I can explain what a tort is and the purposes of tort law.
Official code: 3.3
Kinds of torts and their elements
I can identify the different kinds of torts and their basic elements.
Official code: 3.4
Intentional vs unintentional torts
I can distinguish intentional torts from unintentional (negligent) torts.
Official code: 3.4.1
Negligence concepts
I can explain the core concepts of negligence.
Official code: 3.4.2
Remedies, Damages, and Defences
Remedies for victims
I can explain the remedies available to victims of a tort.
Official code: 3.5
Kinds of damages
I can identify the kinds of damages in tort and the principles governing them.
Official code: 3.5.1
Aboriginal litigants in tort actions
I can identify the unique circumstances in tort actions involving Aboriginal litigants.
Official code: 3.5.2
Defences to torts
I can identify the specific defences to various torts.
Official code: 3.6
Applying tort law to cases
I can apply tort law to analyse a specific case.
Official code: 3.7
The official wording · 11 outcomes
- 3.1
- distinguish between civil and criminal matters and the different types of civil law
- 3.2
- describe civil court procedures and contrast them with criminal procedure
- 3.3
- demonstrate an understanding of torts and the purposes of tort law
- 3.4
- demonstrate an understanding of the different kinds of torts and their elements
- 3.4.1
- distinguish between intentional and unintentional torts
- 3.4.2
- explain duty of care, standard care, proximate cause, foreseeability, and the reasonable person standard
- 3.5
- demonstrate an understanding of the remedies available for victims
- 3.5.1
- identify different kinds of damages which may be awarded in tortious actions and the principles governing their application
- 3.5.2
- Identify the unique circumstances regarding tortious actions brought by and against Aboriginal litigants and respondents to litigation
- 3.6
- identify the specific defences to various torts
- 3.7
- apply their understanding of tort law to specific cases
Key ideas
Criminal law involves the state prosecuting a wrong against society; civil law resolves disputes between parties.
A tort is a civil wrong (other than breach of contract) that causes harm.
The main tort remedy is damages - money to compensate the victim.
In criminal cases the standard is 'beyond a reasonable doubt'; in civil cases it is the 'balance of probabilities'.
Tort law lets an injured person sue the wrongdoer for compensation.
Watch out for
- Thinking civil and criminal cases use the same standard of proof - they differ.
- Thinking a tort is a crime - it is a civil wrong.
- Thinking tort remedies punish - they mainly compensate.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Unit 4 · 8 skills
Unit 4: Contracts
Making a Valid Contract
The need for contracts and valid agreements
I can explain why contracts are needed and how a valid contract is made.
Official code: 4.1
Purpose, nature, and types of contracts
I can explain the purpose, nature, and types of contracts.
Official code: 4.1.1
Making a valid contract
I can describe the elements and process of making a valid contract.
Official code: 4.1.2
Limits and constraints of contracts
I can identify legal limits on who can make a binding contract, including minors.
Official code: 4.1.3
Discharging a contract
I can explain the ways a contract may be discharged.
Official code: 4.1.4
Breach and Remedies
Breach of contract
I can identify the legal consequences of a breach of contract.
Official code: 4.2
Remedies for breach of contract
I can identify the remedies for breach of contract and how they apply.
Official code: 4.3
Applying contract law to cases
I can apply contract law to analyse a specific case.
Official code: 4.4
The official wording · 8 outcomes
- 4.1
- explain the need for contractual agreements and the process of making a valid contract
- 4.1.1
- explain the purpose, nature and types of contracts
- 4.1.2
- describe the elements of and the process for making a valid contract
- 4.1.3
- identify the legal limitations and constraints of contracts for various individuals
- 4.1.4
- explain how a contract may be discharged
- 4.2
- identify the legal consequences of breach of contract
- 4.3
- identify the remedies available for breach of contract and demonstrate an understanding of their application
- 4.4
- apply their understanding of contract law to specific cases
Key ideas
A contract is a legally enforceable agreement between parties.
A breach occurs when a party fails to perform its contractual obligations.
Contracts let people rely on promises in business and daily life.
A minor breach allows a claim for damages; a fundamental breach may end the contract.
A valid contract requires offer, acceptance, consideration, capacity, and legal purpose.
Watch out for
- Thinking any promise is a contract - it needs the essential elements.
- Thinking any failure ends the contract - only a fundamental breach may.
- Thinking contracts must be written - many are valid orally.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Unit 5 · 13 skills
Unit 5: Family Law
Family, Marriage, and Relationships
What is a family in legal terms
I can describe what counts as a family in legal terms.
Official code: 5.1
Changing trends in family structure
I can explain changing trends in family structure and their legal relevance.
Official code: 5.1.1
Legal requirements of marriage and common-law relationships
I can identify the legal requirements of marriage and common-law relationships, including same-sex partnerships.
Official code: 5.1.2
Rights and responsibilities of family members
I can explain the legal rights and responsibilities of family members.
Official code: 5.1.3
Adoption
I can explain the legal requirements and process of adoption.
Official code: 5.1.4
Family Breakdown
Legal ramifications of family breakdown
I can explain the legal ramifications of family breakdown.
Official code: 5.2
Separation, divorce, and annulment
I can explain the legal requirements and processes of separation, divorce, and annulment.
Official code: 5.2.1
Pre-nuptial and cohabitation agreements
I can describe the purpose and requirements of pre-nuptial and cohabitation agreements.
Official code: 5.2.2
Deciding custody
I can explain the legal principles used to decide custody.
Official code: 5.2.3
Deciding support
I can explain the legal principles used to decide support.
Official code: 5.2.4
Dividing matrimonial property
I can explain the legal principles used to divide matrimonial property.
Official code: 5.2.5
Applying Family Law and Protecting Families
Applying family law to cases
I can apply family law to analyse a specific case.
Official code: 5.3
Domestic violence and abuse
I can explain the causes and consequences of domestic violence and abuse and the legal responses.
Official code: 5.4
The official wording · 13 outcomes
- 5.1
- describe what is considered a family in legal terms
- 5.1.1
- demonstrate an understanding of changing trends in family structure
- 5.1.2
- identify the legal requirements of marriage and of common law relationships, including same sex partnerships
- 5.1.3
- demonstrate an understanding of the legal rights and responsibilities of family members
- 5.1.4
- identify and explain the legal requirements and process of adoption
- 5.2
- demonstrate an understanding of the legal ramifications of family breakdown
- 5.2.1
- identify and explain the legal requirements and processes involved in separation, divorce and annulment
- 5.2.2
- describe the purpose and legal requirements of pre-nuptial and cohabitation agreements
- 5.2.3
- demonstrate an understanding of the legal principles applied when deciding custody
- 5.2.4
- demonstrate an understanding of the legal principles applied when deciding support issues
- 5.2.5
- demonstrate an understanding of the legal principles applied when dividing matrimonial property
- 5.3
- apply their understanding of family law to specific cases
- 5.4
- demonstrate an understanding of the causes and consequences of domestic violence and abuse
Key ideas
Family law recognizes families formed by marriage, common-law relationships, and parent-child ties.
Family breakdown raises legal issues of divorce, custody, support, and property.
Applying family law uses the relevant principles to a family situation.
The legal definition of family has broadened over time.
Divorce legally ends a marriage.
Watch out for
- Thinking only married couples form a legal family - common-law and other forms are recognized.
- Thinking breakdown is only emotional - it has major legal consequences.
- Thinking outcomes depend on who is 'right' emotionally - legal principles govern.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Unit 6 · 11 skills
Unit 6: Estate Law
Wills and Testaments
The importance of a will
I can explain why preparing a last will and testament is important.
Official code: 6.1
Making, changing, and executing a will
I can explain the legal requirements for making, changing, revoking, and executing a will.
Official code: 6.2
Types of wills
I can identify the different types of wills and how they differ.
Official code: 6.2.1
Legal capacity to make a will
I can explain the legal capacity needed to make a valid will.
Official code: 6.2.2
Required elements of a valid will
I can identify the required elements of a valid will.
Official code: 6.2.3
Duties of the executor
I can explain the duties and obligations of an executor.
Official code: 6.2.4
Intestacy and Directives
Intestate succession
I can explain intestate succession and its consequences.
Official code: 6.3
Applying estate law to cases
I can apply estate law to analyse a specific case.
Official code: 6.4
Power of attorney
I can explain the requirements and authority of a power of attorney.
Official code: 6.5
Living wills
I can explain what a living will is and its role.
Official code: 6.6
Living will vs last will and testament
I can compare the enforceability of a living will and a last will and testament.
Official code: 6.6.1
The official wording · 11 outcomes
- 6.1
- demonstrate an understanding of the necessity for and importance of preparing a last will and testament
- 6.2
- identify and explain the legal requirements for making, changing, revoking and executing a last will and testament
- 6.2.1
- identify the types and differences among the various types of last will and testaments
- 6.2.2
- demonstrate an understanding of the legal capacity necessary to make a last will and testament
- 6.2.3
- identify the required elements of a valid last will and testament
- 6.2.4
- demonstrate an understanding of the duties and obligations of the executor of an estate
- 6.3
- explain intestate succession and its consequences
- 6.4
- apply their understanding of estate law to specific cases
- 6.5
- explain the legal requirements of and the authority conferred by a power of attorney
- 6.6
- demonstrate an understanding of a living will
- 6.6.1
- compare the enforceability of a living will to that of a last will and testament
Key ideas
A last will and testament sets out how a person's property is distributed after death.
Intestacy is dying without a valid will.
A will lets a person choose beneficiaries and name an executor.
The law sets out a fixed order for distributing the estate (to spouse, children, and other relatives).
Without a will, the law decides distribution (intestacy).
Watch out for
- Thinking a will is only for the wealthy - anyone with property benefits.
- Thinking property goes to whomever the family chooses - the law decides.
- Thinking property is distributed as one wishes without a will - the law decides.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Unit 7 · 7 skills
Unit 7: Environmental Law
The Need for and Extent of Environmental Law
The need for environmental law
I can identify the need for and purposes of environmental law.
Official code: 7.1
The extent of environmental protection laws
I can identify environmental protection laws at the local, national, and international levels.
Official code: 7.2
Effectiveness and Balance
Effectiveness of environmental law
I can evaluate how effective environmental law is at protecting the environment.
Official code: 7.3
Sustainability of resource use
I can assess whether current laws ensure sustainable resource use and environmental quality.
Official code: 7.3.1
Balancing economy and environment
I can evaluate how well laws balance economic development against environmental concerns.
Official code: 7.3.2
Influence and Applying the Law
Role of lobby and interest groups
I can assess the role of lobby, protest, and special-interest groups in environmental law.
Official code: 7.4
Applying environmental law to cases
I can apply environmental law to analyse a specific case.
Official code: 7.5
The official wording · 7 outcomes
- 7.1
- identify the need for and purposes of environmental law
- 7.2
- research to identify the nature and extent of environmental protection laws locally, nationally and internationally
- 7.3
- evaluate the effectiveness of environmental law in protecting air, water, land and endangered species locally, nationally and internationally
- 7.3.1
- assess the extent to which current laws ensure the sustainability of resource use and environmental quality
- 7.3.2
- analyze current laws and evaluate the extent to which they balance economic development against environmental concerns
- 7.4
- describe and assess the role of lobby, protest and special interest groups in making and changing environmental law
- 7.5
- apply their understanding of environmental law to specific cases
Key ideas
Environmental law protects air, water, land, and living things from harm.
Effectiveness means whether the law actually protects the environment.
Interest groups try to influence environmental law and policy.
It is needed because environmental harm affects everyone and can be permanent.
Enforcement, penalties, and compliance affect effectiveness.
Watch out for
- Thinking the environment protects itself - law is needed to prevent harm.
- Thinking a law on paper guarantees protection - enforcement matters.
- Thinking only governments shape environmental law - interest groups influence it too.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Unit 8 · 4 skills
Unit 8: Consumer Law
Consumer Protection
Why consumer protection is needed
I can explain why consumer protection laws are needed.
Official code: 8.1
Protection provided by legislation
I can describe the protections consumer legislation provides.
Official code: 8.2
Conditions and warranties
I can distinguish implied from express conditions and warranties.
Official code: 8.3
Remedies for buyer and seller
I can identify the remedies available to buyers and sellers in a case.
Official code: 8.4
The official wording · 4 outcomes
- 8.1
- explain why consumer protection laws are needed
- 8.2
- describe the protection provided to consumers by legislation
- 8.3
- distinguish between implied and express conditions and warranties
- 8.4
- analyze specific cases to identify remedies available to the buyer and seller
Key ideas
Consumers often have less power and information than sellers.
Consumer protection laws guard against unfair or deceptive practices.
They ensure products are safe and promises are honoured.
They help balance the relationship between buyers and sellers.
Consumer legislation sets standards for fair dealing, safety, and disclosure.
Watch out for
- Thinking buyers and sellers are always equal - consumers often have less power.
- Thinking consumer law only helps sellers - it protects buyers.
- Thinking consumers have no legal protections - legislation provides many.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Unit 9 · 6 skills
Unit 9: Aboriginal Peoples and Law
Status and the Indian Act
Status and non-Status Indians under the Indian Act
I can explain and differentiate Status and non-Status under the Indian Act.
Official code: 9.1
Rights of Status and non-Status Indians
I can compare the rights of Status and non-Status Indians under the Indian Act.
Official code: 9.1.1
The Charter and Bill C-31
I can explain how the Charter led to Bill C-31's changes to the Indian Act.
Official code: 9.1.2
Aboriginal Rights and Self-Government
Aboriginal Rights and Treaty Rights
I can explain the difference between Aboriginal Rights and Treaty Rights.
Official code: 9.2
Aboriginal self-government
I can explain the concept of Aboriginal self-government.
Official code: 9.3
Aboriginal vs parliamentary models of government
I can compare Aboriginal models of government with the parliamentary democratic model.
Official code: 9.4
The official wording · 6 outcomes
- 9.1
- explain and differentiate between the definitions of Status and non-Status Indians under the Indian Act
- 9.1.1
- identify, compare and contrast between the rights, freedoms and responsibilities afforded Status and non-Status Indians under the Indian Act
- 9.1.2
- apply their understanding of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to the changes made in the Indian Act through Bill C-31.
- 9.2
- explain the differences between Aboriginal Rights and Treaty Rights
- 9.3
- apply their understanding of governance and human rights to the concept of Aboriginal self-government
- 9.4
- compare and contrast Aboriginal models of government to the parliamentary democratic model
Key ideas
The Indian Act defines who is a 'Status Indian' - a legal category with specific rights under the Act.
Aboriginal Rights arise from Indigenous peoples' long-standing use and occupation of the land before European contact.
'Non-Status' refers to Indigenous people who are not registered under the Indian Act, though they may still be part of a First Nation.
Treaty Rights come from specific agreements between Indigenous nations and the Crown.
The Status distinction has historically caused injustice, especially for women who lost Status through marriage.
Watch out for
- Thinking Status defines whether someone is Indigenous - it is a legal registration category, not identity.
- Thinking Aboriginal and Treaty Rights are the same - they arise from different sources.
- Thinking 'non-Status' means 'not Indigenous' - it means not registered under the Act.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Unit 10 · 3 skills
Unit 10: International Law
International Law
The nature of international law
I can explain what international law is and how it is made.
Official code: 10.1
Examples of international law
I can discuss examples of international law and how effective they are.
Official code: 10.2
Applying international law to current issues
I can apply international law to a current or recent issue.
Official code: 10.3
The official wording · 3 outcomes
- 10.1
- explain the nature of international law and how it is made
- 10.2
- discuss specific examples of international laws and their application and effectiveness
- 10.3
- apply their understanding of aspects of international law to current/recent issues
Key ideas
International law governs relations between states and some other actors.
It is made through treaties, custom, and the work of international organizations.
Unlike domestic law, there is no single world government to enforce it.
States agree to be bound, and compliance depends largely on cooperation.
Examples include human-rights treaties, the law of the sea, and the laws of war.
Watch out for
- Thinking international law has a world police force - enforcement is limited.
- Thinking it is not real law - states treat it as binding.
- Thinking international law is always enforced - effectiveness varies.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Unit 11 · 5 skills
Unit 11: Labour Law
Employment Rights and Contracts
Rights and responsibilities in employment
I can explain the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees.
Official code: 11.1
Elements of employment contracts
I can explain the elements of an employment contract.
Official code: 11.1.1
Federal and provincial labour legislation
I can identify the main provisions of federal and provincial labour legislation.
Official code: 11.2
Unions and Collective Bargaining
Formation and role of unions
I can explain how unions form and what role they play.
Official code: 11.3
Collective bargaining
I can describe the collective-bargaining process and the parties' roles.
Official code: 11.4
The official wording · 5 outcomes
- 11.1
- identify and explain the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees, principals and agents
- 11.1.1
- demonstrate an understanding of the elements of employment contracts
- 11.2
- identify and explain the main provisions of federal and provincial labour legislation
- 11.3
- explain the formation and role of unions
- 11.4
- describe the process of collective bargaining and the roles of the parties involved
Key ideas
Employment law sets out the rights and duties of employers and employees.
A union is an organization of workers that represents them collectively.
Employees have rights to fair pay, safe conditions, and notice of termination.
Workers form a union through a certification process.
Employers have rights to reasonable performance and duties to comply with the law.
Watch out for
- Thinking only employees have rights - employers have rights and duties too.
- Thinking a union is imposed by government - workers choose to form one.
- Thinking employment has no legal rules - it is heavily regulated.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Unit 12 · 7 skills
Unit 12: Youth and the Law
Youth Justice Over Time
Changing attitudes toward young offenders
I can explain how attitudes toward young offenders have changed over time.
Official code: 12.1
Youth justice legislation over time
I can compare the successive youth-justice laws in Canada.
Official code: 12.1.1
Youth Rights and Treatment
Special rights and protections for young offenders
I can identify the special rights and protections young offenders have.
Official code: 12.2
Treatment of adult and young offenders
I can compare how adult and young offenders are treated.
Official code: 12.3
Why special provisions for young offenders
I can explain why young offenders have special legal provisions.
Official code: 12.4
Validity of treating youth differently
I can assess whether treating young offenders differently is justified.
Official code: 12.5
Resources for Young Victims
Resources for young victims
I can identify resources and contacts available to young victims of crime.
Official code: 12.6
The official wording · 7 outcomes
- 12.1
- discuss and explain changing attitudes toward the treatment of young offenders over time
- 12.1.1
- compare the provisions of the Juvenile Delinquents Act, the Young Offenders Act, the Youth Criminal Justice Act and current legislation
- 12.2
- identify the special rights and protections currently provided to young offenders on arrest and detention, during trial and with respect to dispositions and alternative measures
- 12.3
- compare the treatment of adult and young offenders
- 12.4
- explain why there are special legal provisions for young offenders
- 12.5
- assess the validity of treating young offenders differently
- 12.6
- identify resources and contacts available to young victims and potential victims of crime
Key ideas
Society's approach to young offenders has shifted over time.
Young offenders have extra protections beyond those given to adults.
Young victims and potential victims have access to support and resources.
Earlier approaches emphasized either harsh punishment or rehabilitation at different times.
On arrest they have rights to counsel and to have a parent notified.
Watch out for
- Thinking attitudes have always been the same - they have shifted significantly.
- Thinking youth are treated like adults - they have special protections.
- Thinking victims must cope alone - resources and support exist.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Unit 13 · 9 skills
Unit 13: Human Rights
The Human Rights Documents
Protecting human rights nationally and internationally
I can explain why human rights need protection nationally and internationally.
Official code: 13.1
The UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights
I can explain the background and reasons for the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Official code: 13.1.1
The Canadian Bill of Rights
I can explain the background and reasons for the Canadian Bill of Rights.
Official code: 13.1.2
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
I can explain the background and reasons for the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Official code: 13.1.3
The Canadian and NB Human Rights Acts
I can explain the background and reasons for the Canadian and NB Human Rights Acts.
Official code: 13.1.4
Rights, Complaints, and Remedies
Rights under human-rights documents
I can describe my rights and responsibilities under the major human-rights documents.
Official code: 13.2
Filing a human-rights complaint
I can describe how a human-rights complaint is filed and heard.
Official code: 13.3
Remedies under human-rights law
I can identify the remedies available under human-rights law.
Official code: 13.4
Effectiveness of human-rights legislation
I can evaluate how effective current human-rights legislation is.
Official code: 13.5
The official wording · 9 outcomes
- 13.1
- explain the need for protection of human rights nationally and internationally
- 13.1.1
- explain the background to and reasons for the adoption of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights
- 13.1.2
- explain the background to and reasons for the adoption of the Canadian Bill of Rights
- 13.1.3
- explain the background to and reasons for the adoption of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
- 13.1.4
- explain the background to and reasons for the adoption of the Canadian and NB Human Rights Act
- 13.2
- describe their rights and responsibilities as citizens of Canada and the world under the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Canadian Bill of Rights, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and national and provincial Human Rights Acts
- 13.3
- describe and explain the process of filing and hearing a complaint under the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Canadian Bill of Rights, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and national and New Brunswick Human Rights Acts
- 13.4
- identify the remedies available to plaintiffs under the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Canadian Bill of Rights, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and national and provincial Human Rights Acts
- 13.5
- evaluate the effectiveness of current human rights legislation
Key ideas
Human rights are the basic rights all people have simply for being human.
Together these documents protect a wide range of rights and freedoms.
History shows rights can be violated by governments and others.
The UDHR sets a global standard; the Charter protects rights in Canada's Constitution.
National and international laws protect these rights.
Watch out for
- Thinking rights protect themselves - law and institutions are needed.
- Thinking these documents all do the same thing - they operate at different levels.
- Thinking human rights are only a national matter - they are also international.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Unit 14 · 6 skills
Unit 14: Property Law
Owning Property
Purchase and sale of real property
I can outline the procedures for buying and selling real property.
Official code: 14.1
Rights and responsibilities of property owners
I can explain the rights and responsibilities of property owners.
Official code: 14.2
Limits on property ownership
I can explain the limits on the rights of property ownership.
Official code: 14.2.1
Landlord and Tenant
Rights and responsibilities of landlord and tenant
I can explain the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants.
Official code: 14.3
Types of leases
I can identify the essentials of various types of leases.
Official code: 14.3.1
Classes of tenancies
I can identify the different classes of tenancies and their essentials.
Official code: 14.3.2
The official wording · 6 outcomes
- 14.1
- outline the procedures for the purchase and sale of real property
- 14.2
- identify and explain the rights and responsibilities of property owners
- 14.2.1
- identify and explain the limits on the rights of property ownership
- 14.3
- identify and explain the rights and responsibilities of landlord and tenant
- 14.3.1
- identify and explain the essentials of various types of leases
- 14.3.2
- identify and explain the essentials of the different classes of tenancies
Key ideas
Real property is land and things attached to it, like buildings.
A tenancy is a legal relationship where a tenant rents property from a landlord.
Buying and selling involves an offer, agreement of purchase and sale, and closing.
Landlords must provide a habitable property and respect the tenant's rights.
Title searches and registration confirm and record ownership.
Watch out for
- Thinking a handshake transfers land - a legal process and registration are needed.
- Thinking landlords can do anything - tenants have protected rights.
- Thinking real and personal property are the same - real property is land.
Every skill’s key ideas, worked examples and checks are in MapleMind.Practise this unit
Plan the term
Pick your term and the days you study. Each unit gets its share of the weeks and comes back a week later for a review. The last two weeks go over the whole course.
Which course?
New Brunswick has 2 social studies courses for Grade 12. Here they are side by side.
- Law 120This course14 units · 115 skillsNo provincial examWhat it coversUnit 1: Foundations of the Law · Unit 2: Criminal Law · Unit 3: Civil Law - Torts · Unit 4: Contracts · Unit 5: Family Law · Unit 6: Estate Law · Unit 7: Environmental Law · Unit 8: Consumer Law · Unit 9: Aboriginal Peoples and Law · Unit 10: International Law · Unit 11: Labour Law · Unit 12: Youth and the Law · Unit 13: Human Rights · Unit 14: Property Law
- World Issues 1203 units · 15 skillsNo provincial examWhat it coversHumanity · Interdependence · Geopolitics
What a university, college or program asks for is theirs to say: check its admission page, and your school’s course guide.
The official curriculum
This page follows New Brunswick’s own curriculum for Law 120.
Study it in MapleMind
MapleMind teaches Law 120 one skill at a time. Each skill gets a short lesson, practice as you go and a check worth up to three stars. It remembers where you stopped.


Course Companion
Your year in one workbook
A fun way to keep Law 120 organized, get to know your child better and see early when they need a hand. Fill it in on a screen, or print it.
- Pages
- 69
- Fillable fields
- 3,206
- Price
- $4.99
Questions about Law 120
What is Law 120?
New Brunswick’s Grade 12 social studies course: 14 units and 115 skills, from Unit 1: Foundations of the Law to Unit 14: Property Law.
What units are in Law 120?
1. Unit 1: Foundations of the Law, 2. Unit 2: Criminal Law, 3. Unit 3: Civil Law - Torts, 4. Unit 4: Contracts, 5. Unit 5: Family Law, 6. Unit 6: Estate Law, 7. Unit 7: Environmental Law, 8. Unit 8: Consumer Law, 9. Unit 9: Aboriginal Peoples and Law, 10. Unit 10: International Law, 11. Unit 11: Labour Law, 12. Unit 12: Youth and the Law, 13. Unit 13: Human Rights and 14. Unit 14: Property Law.
Is there a provincial exam for Law 120?
No. New Brunswick gives no provincial exam for Law 120.
Can MapleMind help with Law 120?
Yes. MapleMind teaches every skill of Law 120, step by step, with practice and checks, and its tutor answers questions about any of them. It’s free with daily limits, on iPhone, Android and the web.