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Investigating and Punishing Law-Breakers

The federal electoral process has many safeguards, including means to investigate and punish those who break elections law.

  • The Commissioner of Canada Elections is in charge of making sure people comply with election law.
  • If Elections Canada staff thinks someone may have committed an offence under the Canada Elections Act, we inform the Commissioner's office.
  • Members of the public who think someone may be breaking election law can contact the Commissioner of Canada Elections to make a complaint.
  • The Commissioner can investigate and, if required, lay charges.
  • There are legal penalties for breaking election law, including fines and jail time.