Civil Lawyers

A civil dispute is a disagreement between people or businesses about money, property, a contract or damage done: not a criminal matter, but one that can still end up in court. On this page you can compare civil lawyers, see their rates and availability, and book a consultation online.

What a civil lawyer does

A civil lawyer helps you assert or defend your rights in a private dispute. That can mean reviewing your documents and telling you where you stand, writing a formal demand, negotiating a settlement, or representing you in court if it comes to that. Many cases settle long before a trial, and a lawyer's early advice often decides whether yours is worth pursuing at all.

Civil law works differently across Canada. Quebec follows the Civil Code of Québec, while the other provinces use the common law, so deadlines, procedures and even the vocabulary change from one province to the next. Most lawyers listed on this page practise in Quebec.

Common civil disputes

• Contract disputes: a supplier, contractor or client who did not deliver, did not pay, or broke the agreement.
• Hidden defects (vices cachés): serious problems with a property or product that were not visible when you bought it. If a defective product caused injury or damage, see our page on product liability lawyers.
• Property damage: water damage, a neighbour's work, an accident or negligence that damaged your property. See our article on property damage lawyers in Laval. If someone's negligence also injured you, see our page on personal injury lawyers. If the injury came from medical care, see our page on medical malpractice lawyers.
• Construction disputes: poor workmanship, delays, cost overruns or unpaid invoices on a building project.
• Defamation: false statements that harm your reputation, online or offline.
• Money owed: unpaid loans, invoices or amounts someone refuses to pay back.

Before suing: the demand letter and deadlines

In Quebec, a civil claim usually starts with a formal demand letter, called a mise en demeure. It tells the other party what you want, why, and by when, and it creates a written record that you gave them the chance to fix the problem. A demand written or reviewed by a lawyer is often enough to settle the matter without going to court.

Don't wait too long. Civil claims have time limits, called prescription periods, and once one runs out you can lose the right to sue even if you are right on the facts. The period depends on the type of claim and usually starts when you knew, or should have known, about the problem. Éducaloi explains these rules in plain language, and a lawyer can tell you exactly where you stand.

Small claims court or a lawyer?

For smaller amounts, Quebec has a small claims division of the Court of Québec, designed so people can present their own case. In general, lawyers cannot represent you at the small claims hearing itself, but you can consult one beforehand to assess your claim and prepare. The amount limit and the rules are set by the government; check the Quebec government's small claims page for the current details. Above that limit, or when the case is complex, having a lawyer represent you becomes much more important.

What a civil lawyer costs

Each lawyer sets their own rates. Common arrangements are an hourly rate, a fixed fee for a defined task such as a demand letter or a contract review, or a mix of both. On JustiConnect you can see each lawyer's rates up front and compare them before you book. At your first consultation, ask for an estimate of the total cost and of the court fees and expert costs that can come on top. To confirm that a lawyer is a member of the bar, check the Barreau du Québec.

When to get a lawyer

• You received a formal demand letter or a lawsuit and need to respond.
• The amount at stake is significant, or the other side already has a lawyer.
• A deadline may be close and you are unsure whether you can still act.
• The facts are complex: several parties, expert evidence, or a construction project.
• You want to know whether your claim is worth pursuing before you spend time on it.

Not sure who to pick? Our guide on how to choose a lawyer in Quebec walks you through it.

Compare and book on JustiConnect

Browse the civil lawyers listed below, filter by location, rates and availability, and book a consultation directly. You can also search all civil lawyers or see the civil lawyers in Montreal.

You can also compare civil lawyers in Laval, Longueuil, Quebec City and Gatineau. For a specific dispute, see personal injury lawyers in Montreal, construction dispute lawyers in Quebec City, defamation lawyers in Montreal or property damage lawyers in Gatineau.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a lawyer to send a demand letter?

No, you can write one yourself. A lawyer's letter tends to be taken more seriously, though, and it helps make sure the demand is complete and does not weaken your position later.

Can a lawyer help me with small claims?

Yes, before the hearing. A lawyer can assess your claim, help you organize your evidence and explain what to expect, even if you present the case yourself.

How long do I have to sue?

It depends on the type of claim and the province. Because missing the deadline can end your claim, get advice early rather than waiting.