A statute is a formal written law enacted by a legislative body such as Parliament or a provincial legislature. Statutes are also called acts or legislation. They establish legal rules, create government programs, define rights and obligations, and authorize regulations providing detailed implementation rules. Statutes go through a formal legislative process including introduction, readings, committee review, and royal assent before becoming law. Federal statutes apply across Canada, provincial statutes within their province, and territorial statutes within territories. Municipalities derive their authority from provincial statutes (like Municipal Government Acts) that define municipal powers and responsibilities. Courts interpret statutes when their application is disputed.