Canadian Online Legal Dictionary

A legal principle, of general application, sanctioned by the recognition of authorities, and usually expressed in the form of a maxim or logical proposition. Called a "rule," because in doubtful or unforeseen causes it is a guide or nom for their decision. The rule of law, sometimes called "the supremacy of law," provides that decisions should be made by the application of known principles or laws without the intervention of discretion in their application. [Black's].

The restriction of arbitrary authority in government, and the necessity for all acts of government to be authorized by reasonably precise laws as applied and interpreted by the courts." [quoting Prof. R.M. Dawson, The Govt. of Canada.]

The ideal of the supremacy of law in the social order. There are three aspects to the rule of law: no one can be punished except for breach of a duly enacted law; everyone, from the highest official to the ordinary citizen, is subject to the ordinary law of the land; and the courts have ultimate responsibility for the protection of rights and respect for the legal order.