This chapter outlines the constitutional and legal foundations of Canada’s liberal democratic system, focusing on how these structures support intelligence and national security oversight. It analyzes the distinct roles and interdependencies of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, demonstrating how each contributes to democratic accountability in national security governance. A detailed institutional hierarchy situates key actors—including the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and the Privy Council Office (PCO)—within the broader oversight architecture. Parliamentary oversight mechanisms, such as the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (SECU), are described in light of their evolving roles. The judiciary’s contribution is examined through the mandates of the Supreme Court, Federal Court, and provincial courts, with particular attention to their role in upholding the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The chapter also considers the rise of asymmetric lawfare and value-based legal challenges, exploring how adversaries exploit democratic norms to destabilize institutional integrity. By bridging constitutional principles with operational oversight practice, the chapter provides a foundational framework for understanding the legal and institutional environment in which Canada’s intelligence accountability mechanisms function.