Quebec residents seeking legal advice can take advantage of a unique opportunity this weekend. Lawyers and notaries will be offering free consultations over the phone to address any legal concerns individuals may have.
Andrée-Anne Dion, the president of the Young Bar Association of Montreal, acknowledges the challenges individuals face in accessing legal guidance due to factors such as costs, waiting times, and the prospect of going to court.
The organization’s 45th Legal Clinic, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, aims to simplify the process of interacting with legal professionals.
Dion emphasized the clinic’s objective to demonstrate the ease of gathering information, consulting with lawyers, and establishing trust with legal experts. “Our goal is to show people that seeking legal advice can be straightforward and approachable,” she mentioned in an interview with The Canadian Press.
Whether individuals have inquiries regarding rent hikes, divorce proceedings, or neighborhood conflicts, legal experts will be on hand from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. reachable at 1 (844) 779-6232.
A team of over 50 lawyers and notaries will be volunteering their time to provide assistance during the event.
Dion anticipates receiving between 1,000 and 2,000 calls throughout the weekend. “Since 2010, we have estimated answering approximately 24,000 calls,” she disclosed.
The demand for legal guidance remains consistent at each clinic session, which occurs biannually.
“People often seek advice on issues they encounter in their daily lives that are recurring and not isolated incidents,” Dion noted.
Accessing justice can be challenging, particularly with ongoing legislative modifications. “Finding reliable information is not always straightforward,” Dion explained. “Sometimes, individuals only become aware of changes once they are in effect, leaving them unprepared.”
Consultations typically last 15 to 20 minutes. For more complex matters, lawyers and notaries may provide further assistance in the following weeks or direct individuals to local resources.
The benefits of these consultations extend beyond just Quebec residents. Dion highlighted how legal professionals also gain valuable insights and knowledge through these interactions. “It’s a learning experience for us too. It allows us to enhance our expertise and delve into new areas within our field,” she expressed.
“It’s fulfilling to see the direct impact we can have in helping individuals. Making a positive difference in someone’s life is truly rewarding,” she added.
