Concordia’s Jurist-in-Residence program announces a renewed agreement with the Court of Quebec

For three years, faculty and students in Concordia’s Law and Society Minor have been working in collaboration with the Court of Quebec. The partnership was so successful that it’s been recently renewed.

The Law and Society program, hosted by the Department of History in the Faculty of Arts and Science, allows small groups of undergraduate students to get an up-close look at how the justice system functions.

“Although we are keeping our main theme of justice and adaptability to justice, this year we are adding some exciting new themes,” says Morton Minc, Concordia’s jurist-in-residence since 2017.

Those themes include adapting to the new normal of post-pandemic life, examining how the justice system both preserves old ways of doing things and adapts to new realities.

“We are so proud to have brought the Jurist-in-Residence program to Concordia,” says Pascale Sicotte, dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science.

“Thanks to Judge Minc’s tireless efforts, this program has grown in impressive ways throughout the years. The renewal of this valued partnership with the Court of Quebec will be of tremendous benefit to our students.”

How it works

In existence since 1988, the Court of Quebec has three chambers: civil court, criminal court and youth court.

Participating students have the chance to meet judges and observe trials, gaining unique knowledge of the legal profession while orienting their professional careers.

“This program has allowed students to follow their passion, which will lead to their true purpose in their academic lives,” Minc says.

The partnership has been a hit with students. One student, who is majoring in child studies, says the program was an eye-opening experience that helped demystify the law for them and clarify their future career path.

They credit the three judges they met with giving them individualized advice and mentorship.

“This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that has greatly enriched my life. I will be eternally grateful.”

Another student, who is majoring in philosophy, says the experience inspired them to pursue legal studies.

At the same time, they say, the program left them feeling empowered as a citizen. “I was able to see the system at work, with its fairness and commitment to justice.”

Looking ahead

Judge Minc says he’s looking forward to continuing this collaboration.

“Following this program allows students to see how our legal system is integral to a free and democratic society.”

Find out more about Concordia’s Jurist-in-Residence program.