MONTREAL, May 25, 2025 – Kugler Kandestin is pleased to announce that the Quebec Superior Court has upheld a class-action lawsuit filed on behalf of approximately 24,000 people whose constitutional rights were knowingly violated by the Quebec government. The ruling grants $7,000 in damages to those who were arrested and unlawfully held for longer than the legally permitted time before appearing before a Justice of the Peace.

The Criminal Code mandates that governments across the country ensure arrested individuals appear in court within 24 hours. This regulation protects the right to freedom and the presumption of innocence, both of which are fundamental rights guaranteed to everyone under the Quebec and Canadian Charters. From 2015 to 2020, the Quebec government knowingly failed to schedule court appearances on Sundays or statutory holidays, leading to unlawful detentions and the violation of the fundamental rights of thousands of Quebec residents.

“This decision represents a much-needed acknowledgement of the suffering endured by thousands of marginalized people,” stated attorneys Robert Kugler, Alexandre Brosseau-Wery, and Eva Richard, who, along with Jean-François Benoit and Sophie-Anne Décarie, were part of the team that spearheaded the case. All are honored to have contributed to securing long-awaited justice for so many.

For additional details regarding the class action, please get in touch with one of the lawyers:

Sophie-Anne Décarie

Jean-François Benoît

Robert Kugler

Alexandre Brosseau-Wery

Éva Richard

Class members are invited to contact Kugler Kandestin, Attorneys, at 514-878-2861 and request the extension for the Makoma class action.

SOURCE Kugler Kandestin

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