Definition An obligation is the legal tie by which a person (the debtor) is bound to perform a prestation for the benefit of another person (the creditor): to do, not to do, or to give. Obligations arise from contracts and from acts or facts to which the law attaches effects (e.g. a fault causing damage). […]
Definition A transaction is a contract by which the parties prevent a future dispute, put an end to a lawsuit or settle difficulties arising in the execution of a judgment, through mutual concessions or reservations. Example You bought a used car from an individual and, a few weeks later, discover a major defect that was […]
Definition An association is a grouping of persons pursuing a common goal other than the making of profits to be shared among members. In Quebec, it may take the form of an unincorporated association governed by the contract of association in the Civil Code, or of a nonprofit legal person (NPO) incorporated under Part III […]
Definition A collective agreement is an agreement in writing between a certified association of employees (union) and an employer respecting conditions of employment: wages, hours, seniority, leave, discipline, grievance procedure. It binds all employees of the bargaining unit, whether or not they are union members. Disputes over its application are settled by grievance arbitration. Example […]
Definition A notice of termination is a written document informing a party that a contract or agreement will end on a specific date. Example Your company signed a contract with a supplier for the delivery of materials, but the supplier repeatedly fails to deliver on time. After a formal notice that is not followed by […]
Definition A hearing is a session held before a court, a judge or a tribunal, during which the parties present their evidence and arguments in a case. Example You are involved in a dispute and must appear in court. On the day of the hearing, the judge enters the room and the case is called. […]
Definition A company, or corporation, is a legal entity separate from its owners, created to carry on business, with rights and obligations distinct from those of its shareholders. Example A family business decides to incorporate. The family members become shareholders, but the company itself is a separate legal person. It can buy and sell property, […]
Definition In everyday language, an “acte” is a written document that establishes or proves a right or a legal obligation, such as a deed of sale or a contract. In the strict sense, a juridical act is an expression of will intended to produce legal effects, whether or not it is in writing. Example A […]
Definition An alibi is evidence that the accused was somewhere else when the crime was committed, and therefore could not have committed it. Example You are accused of a crime you did not commit. At the time of the offence, you were having dinner with friends at a restaurant across town. The testimony of your […]
Definition A peace officer is a person who has the duty and powers to maintain public order and enforce the law, including police officers, sheriffs, prison guards, certain customs and fisheries officers and special constables. Peace officers have special powers of arrest, search and use of force, but they must respect the rights guaranteed by […]
