He was first appointed to the Superior Court bench in 2013
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has appointed Jean-Francois Michaud as the new associate chief justice of the Quebec Superior Court.
Michaud brings extensive legal expertise to his new role. He was appointed as a judge of the Quebec Superior Court in 2013, serving the district of Montreal. Since 2019, he has also been the coordinating judge for the community of Terrebonne, the second-largest judicial district in Quebec. Before his judicial appointment, Michaud practised law as a partner at Norton Rose from 2000 to 2013. He also practised with Lavery de Billy from 1989 to 2000. Michaud specializes in commercial, construction, insurance, and professional liability law.
Michaud was a member of the Canadian Bar Association and held various positions within the Montreal bar. He taught evidence and civil liability for several years at the Quebec's bar admission course. Michaud holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the Université de Montréal and was admitted to the Quebec bar in 1989.
Michaud's appointment as associate chief justice of the Quebec Superior Court comes following the passing of Justice Eva Petras, who had served for nearly eight years. As associate chief justice, Michaud will assume leadership and administrative responsibilities for the Quebec Superior Court. He will also serve as a member of the Canadian Judicial Council, which works to improve the quality of judicial services in the superior courts of Canada.
The Superior Court of Quebec handles various cases, including civil and commercial matters, administrative and family issues, bankruptcies, jury trials in criminal cases, and summary conviction appeals.
Prime Minister Trudeau expressed his confidence in Michaud's abilities and wished him success in his new position, stating, "I wish the Honourable Jean-François Michaud every success in his new role as Associate Chief Justice of the Superior Court of Quebec. He is a respected member of the legal community. The Bench, and all Quebecers, will benefit from his diverse and considerable legal experience."
