The start of this new decade was certainly newsworthy. Important new legislation, almost daily decrees related to the pandemic, and some much-anticipated court cases. What should we remember from this last year?
News about laws and regulations
End of prescription in cases of sexual assault and domestic violence
A new law was passed in June that put an end to the limitations period (prescription) on bringing lawsuits for sexual assault and for domestic violence. This means that you can sue someone in civil court no matter how many years have passed since the events occurred.
Read our article to learn more.
The Régie du logement becomes the Tribunal administratif du logement
The new Tribunal administratif du logement (administrative housing tribunal) has the same mission as the old Régie. However, there are new rules for conciliation among other procedural changes.
Read our article to learn more.
Legal consequences of the pandemic
Public health emergency
Red zones and social distancing…these terms didn’t exist when the year started, yet they are well-known today.
After declaring a public health emergency, the government implemented a series of measures to prevent the spread of the virus. During each wave, Éducaloi has been there to help guide you with our COVID-19 guide.
Read our articles on the public health emergency, red zones and find out what you need to know for the holidays.
Read our COVID-19 guide.
Delays surrounding reforms on medical aid in dying (MAID)
In 2019, two Quebecers challenged the constitutionality of Canada’s laws on MAID. The Superior Court of Québec agreed with the plaintiffs and gave the government six months to change the law.
The Canadian government launched a public consultation in response. It has received three extensions from the court to finalize the new law. The Canadian government now has until February 2021 to pass the new law.
Read our article to learn more.
Anticipated court decisions
Several decisions have made the news this year:
- The Supreme Court will hear the case of Mike Ward and Jérémy Gabriel. Read our article to learn more.
- Gilbert Rozon was acquitted because he was able to convince a judge that there was a “reasonable doubt” about his guilt. Read our article to learn more.
- The Act respecting the laicity of the state was challenged in court. Read our article to learn more.