Montreal, April 13, 2022 - Option consommateurs welcomes the bill to improve access to justice by increasing the availability of free or low-cost legal services, which will make a significant contribution to improving access to justice.
This bill, recently tabled by Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette, will enable lawyers working for non-profit organizations to provide legal advice and representation to people in need.
Currently, non-profit organizations like Option consommateurs can only offer legal information services.
"For many consumers who contact us, the legal information we provide is sufficient to help them find a solution to their dispute with a merchant. However, we find that many of them need more advanced legal services, legal advice or representation, which the bill will enable us to provide," points out Christian Corbeil, General Manager ofOption consommateurs.
The bill will also provide better support for consumers in asserting their rights, particularly in court. Many of them currently shy away from complex procedures.
Option consommateurs will be closely monitoring the passage of this legislation, to ensure that it effectively expands the legal services available to Quebec consumers, and that adequate funding is allocated to the organizations that provide these services.
About Option consommateurs
Option consommateurs is a non-profit association whose mission is to defend the rights and interests of consumers. It focuses on issues related to personal finance, business practices, financial services, privacy, energy, debt and access to justice.
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For more information or an interview :
Marie-Ève Dumont, Communications Consultant
514-777-6133
