Everyone has the right to fair access to justice
Seeking legal counsel can be intimidating and resolving a dispute can be difficult, especially since finding and engaging a lawyer is often a lengthy and costly process.
Through a partner law firm, students have access to a legal consultation service to consult a duly certified lawyer regarding any legal question. Students can also seek legal representation within their province of study, when their case qualifies for further counsel. To find out if you’re eligible for this service, see the Who’s Covered section.
Program services are provided by members in good standing of the Barreau du Québec.
See the applicable conditions, restrictions, and limitations.
Your program includes:
Legal expenses arising from a dispute over a housing lease, such as a disputed rent increase, an illegal eviction, or a breach of a condition in the lease.
Legal fees related to a dispute relating to a current or future contract of employment, with respect to labour standards for grievances not covered by a union or a government agency, in particular the Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité au travail (CNESST). However, the Program does not include legal fees if the student is eligible for legal representation services provided by a government agency, in particular the CNESST. Occupational health and safety disputes are not included in legal representation services.
A student’s legal expenses in the event of a dispute with their academic institution. This excludes cases related to sexual misconduct or a criminal act.
Legal fees to prepare an originating application or a defense before the Small Claims Division of the Court of Quebec, including advice on the rules of conduct before the Court. Court fees are not included for applications to the Small Claims Division.
Legal fees related to litigation where the fundamental rights provided for in the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms or the Canadian Human Rights Act are violated. However, the Program does not include legal fees if the student is eligible for legal representation services provided by a government agency, including the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse.
A one-hour civil mediation session, held in person or remotely with an accredited mediator, is offered to settle a dispute between individuals. Disputes are thus more likely to be resolved quickly and at a lower cost. The mediation session is only offered if the student makes an initial request for civil mediation. If legal consultation or representation is sought first, mediation is no longer an option due to the conflict of interest that may arise.
To access the service, fill out the online Support Form and select Legal Program as the reason for your request.
Victims and survivors of sexual violence often have limited legal resources, given the high costs of civil proceedings and legal representation. But having your rights respected shouldn’t depend on your financial situation.
That’s why the Sexual Violence Care component of the Program facilitates access to justice for victims and survivors who need it. Students have access to legal representation with lawyers specializing in issues related to sexual violence and misconduct, at no additional cost.
The Sexual Violence Care Program provides:
Civil action for damages following sexual violence
A specialized lawyer will support and represent victims and survivors who wish to seek for damages against the perpetrator of the sexual violence. The students are in charge of their case, are well supported, and have full control of their progress and steps taken.
Defamation defence following a public denunciation of sexual violence
Victims and survivors who have publicly denounced the perpetrator have access to full representation by a lawyer to defend themselves in court to prove the legitimacy of their denunciation in legal proceedings against them.
Legal support for victims and survivors during criminal prosecution of sexual violence
Victims and survivors have access to legal support and consultation the moment their legal need or intention to file a complaint arises. They will also be accompanied during their hearing to help reduce stress and emotional turmoil.
Dispute under a provincial compensation program for victims and survivors of sexual violence
Victims and survivors have access to legal support and consultation to claim compensation from a provincial-based program in order to assist with the healing process. These programs are vital resources for victims and survivors who do not wish to go to court for civil compensation.
Institutional procedures for academic matters related to sexual violence
A lawyer will represent victims and survivors in the context of institutional procedures for academic matters related to an incident of sexual violence. This does not include recourse to civil courts.
See the Definitions section for more information on what is defined as sexual violence within the scope of this Program.
ADVANTAGES OFFERED BY THE ASEQ | STUDENTCARE NETWORKSOnly professionals that are members of the ASEQ | Studentcare Networks will appear. To Discover the ASEQ Networks’ Advantages, click on one of the ASEQ Networks below.
