In February 2014, amidst the turmoil caused by the closure of one of North America’s largest law firms, six partners from its litigation department decided to turn uncertainty into opportunity. Just a few days later, LCM Attorneys inc., a litigation boutique destined to become one of the most respected in its field, was born.

What might have seemed like a crazy idea quickly proved to be a tremendous success: within a decade, LCM Attorneys has grown from an emerging firm into a benchmark for excellence in litigation, bringing together individuals with diverse yet complementary personalities and skills. In just a few years, the firm has not only tripled in size, but also expanded its reach across Canada. Today, LCM is firmly established as a trusted firm, whether for dispute prevention or for handling the most complex and strategic litigation matters.

As 2024 draws to a close, marking the end of the celebrations of the first 10 years of our adventure, we have chosen to commemorate this exceptional decade by echoing the traditional New Year’s countdown.

Between reflections on our significant achievements and glimpses into the future, we are eager to share these moments with you.

And now, it’s time for the countdown! 10, 9, 8…

***

In ten years, LCM Attorneys has established itself as a key player in Montreal’s legal community. Renowned for its expertise in civil, commercial, and administrative litigation, the firm has built a strong reputation through an innovative approach and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

At LCM, our accomplishments extend far beyond the courtroom: over the years, numerous judgments we have obtained reflect our involvement in high-profile cases and the significant impact these matters have had—not only on our clients but also on the evolution of the legal landscape. These have further solidified our role as a benchmark in the field of litigation.

Here is an overview of 10 landmark judgments and cases, bearing in mind that many others would also have deserved recognition.

Representing Hydro-Québec in this multi-million-dollar dispute, LCM had the opportunity to plead before the Supreme Court of Canada regarding the validity of the assignment of a 1926 contract following Hydro-Québec’s acquisition of the assets of the Gatineau Power Company in 1965. Upholding the validity of the assignment made by our client and its right to demand the royalties imposed from that moment on, Canada’s highest court delivered a landmark decision in the field of contract interpretation.

The “secret trial” case:

Canadian Broadcasting Corp. v. Named Person, 2024 SCC 21

This highly publicized matter, better known as the “secret trial,” allowed LCM, representing The Advocates’ Society, to play a key role in the debate on the publicity of judicial proceedings. The ruling clarified the rules on judicial transparency, marking a significant step forward for open justice.

Jurisdiction of administrative Tribunals:

Sharp v. Autorité des marchés financiers, 2023 SCC 29

In this matter, LCM brought the debate before the highest court in the country on a crucial administrative law issue: the limits of Quebec courts’ jurisdiction over individuals outside the province. This Supreme Court decision is a landmark ruling on the real and substantial connection test and has been the subject of extensive discussion.

Competition and evidence:

Imperial Oil v. Jacques, 2014 SCC 66

and Canada (Attorney General) v. Thouin, 2017 SCC 46

This competition law case raised several important issues over the years, and LCM had the opportunity to propel the conversation on civil and criminal evidence rules, particularly regarding the possibility of obtaining evidence from a criminal case in a civil case and the ability to subpoena an investigator for questioning. To this day, these decisions continue to serve as key references in this field.

Seizures in private international law:

International Air Transport Association v. Instrubel, N.V., 2019 SCC 61

In this case, LCM had the opportunity to plead before the Supreme Court of Canada on an unprecedented issue: the jurisdiction of Quebec courts to order the seizure of funds held abroad. This ruling of international significance enshrines key lessons from Canada’s highest court, now central to jurisdictional matters.

Exceptional remedies:

Desjardins Assurances générales inc. v. 9330-8898 Québec inc., 2019 QCCA 523

and Desjardins Assurances générales inc. v. Malo, 2020 QCCA 462

In this significant case leading to a seizure before judgment and, namely, Anton Piller, Mareva, and Norwich orders, the Quebec Court of Appeal ruled twice to confirm the renewal of certain orders originally obtained by LCM at the first instance level on behalf of its client, also affirming the right to publish a Mareva order in the appropriate public registry.

Dismissal of action due to res judicata:

Gowling Lafleur Henderson, s.e.n.c.r.l., srl v. Lixo Investments Ltd., 2015 QCCA 513

In this matter, LCM supported Gowling Lafleur Henderson in defending against a claim for damages filed by a former client. This Quebec Court of Appeal decision, stemming from our advocacy, is now a cornerstone in the doctrine of res judicata and led to the dismissal of the claim for damages at an early stage.

A class action rejected at the authorization stage:

Haroch v. Toronto-Dominion Bank, 2024 QCCS 3848

and Haroch v. Toronto-Dominion Bank, 2023 QCCA 1282

Despite the relatively low threshold for a class action to be authorized under Quebec law, LCM recently succeeded in having the authorization for this class action, targeting most financial institutions operating in the province, rejected, further affirming its expertise in large-scale litigation. Additionally, LCM participated in an appellate debate regarding the rejection of an expert report at the authorization stage.

Restrictive clauses:

Lemieux v. Aon Parizeau inc., 2018 QCCA 134

In this case, LCM contributed to the debate before the Court of Appeal concerning the validity and enforcement of a non-solicitation clause in an employment contract. By clarifying the legal parameters governing such clauses, this Quebec Court of Appeal decision is now frequently cited and will undoubtedly shape future guiding principles in labor law.

Acquisitive prescription of an artwork:

Lallouz v. White, 2020 QCCA 1595

To date, this Quebec Court of Appeal ruling, in which LCM prevailed, is one of the rare cases addressing the issue of acquisitive prescription of movable property. A unique milestone in Quebec law, this judgment of the Court of Appeal confirms the possibility of acquiring an artwork based on the criteria of peaceful, continuous, public, and unequivocal possession.

These ten cases are just a glimpse of our contribution to the evolution of the law and our commitment in defending our clients’ interests. At LCM Attorneys, every case is an opportunity to push the boundaries of what is possible and reaffirm our commitment to justice. And this is just the beginning!

***

As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, 2024 also stands out as a remarkable year for the distinctions earned by LCM. These recognitions underline not only the individual excellence of our lawyers, but also the firm’s overall reputation in the Canadian legal landscape.

• Mtre Dominique Ménard, the firm’s managing partner, is once again among Benchmark Litigation’s prestigious “Top 100” of the country’s top female litigation lawyers.
• Mtre Bernard Amyot ranks among the 10 Quebec lawyers in the 2024 Guide to the Leading 500 Lawyers in Canada in the Corporate and Commercial Litigation category.
• The Chambers and Partners directory confirms the expertise of Dominique, Bernard, and Mtre Sébastien C. Caron, as well as our firm’s in the “Québec Litigation: General Commercial” category. Sébastien also shines in the “Québec Litigation: Securities” category for his cutting-edge expertise in securities litigation.
• Our partners Mtre Marie-Noël Rochon, Mtre Julien Archambault and Mtre Nicolas Roche have been recognized in Benchmark Litigation’s “40 & Under Hotlist” of the country’s top litigation lawyers aged 40 and under.
• Eight of our attorneys are featured in the 2024 edition of the Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory.
• Nine attorneys of our team are recognized in the rankings of “Litigation Stars” and “Future Stars” of Benchmark Canada.
• 16 of LCM’s attorneys are recognized in The Best Lawyers in Canada for their respective expertise in our various fields of practice. Dominique was also named Corporate and Commercial Litigation Lawyer of the Year.
• Mtre Bernard Boucher is recognized in the Lexpert Special Edition: Insolvency and Restructuring 2024.
• LCM Attorneys is also honored by the recognition in the Lexpert Special Edition: Litigation 2024.
• The firm also shines in the first edition of Best Law Firms – Canada.

Finally, a very special mention: LCM was among the finalists for the prestigious “Quebec Law Firm of the Year” award at the Benchmark Litigation Canada Awards 2024.

These recognitions are a testament to the rigor, talent and commitment of our entire team. We are proud of these achievements, which reflect our constant ambition for excellence in the field of litigation.

***

The year 2024 saw a wealth of new arrivals for LCM Attorneys, strengthening the team with promising talents and seasoned lawyers. These additions testify to the firm’s appeal and its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of excellence in litigation.

Among the new arrivals, four young associates have chosen to pursue their careers at LCM, bringing with them enthusiasm and rigor: Mtre Ariane Rondeau, Mtre Haia Baraz, Mtre Ioana Manea and Mtre Laurence Asselin.

The firm was also privileged to welcome two seasoned associates, Mtre Élise Veillette and Mtre Mathieu Lacelle, with extensive knowledge in several areas of law that they have been cultivating, respectively, since 2017 and 2016. Their arrival enriches our team with in-depth expertise and a mature perspective on complex legal issues.

The firm is further strengthened by the significant arrival of Mtre Bernard Boucher. Bernard’s incomparable expertise, repeatedly recognized by prestigious awards, is an invaluable asset for the firm, which is particularly fortunate to be able to count on the addition to its ranks of a true point of reference in Quebec bankruptcy and insolvency law.

To top it all off, an exceptional addition marked the fall with the arrival of the Honourable Michel Yergeau as senior counsel. A former judge of the Superior Court (2012-2022), he has left an indelible mark on Quebec law through his landmark decisions in areas such as professional liability, fundamental rights, environmental law, and pay equity. His most recent ruling, in which he concluded that the common law rule recognized in Ladouceur and section 636 of the Highway Safety Code violated three provisions of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, was recently upheld by the Quebec Court of Appeal. Emeritus lawyer of the Quebec Bar and Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, his unparalleled experience and background are invaluable assets to the firm.

***

The 2024 course aux stages marked an important milestone in the history of LCM Attorneys. With the recruitment of seven students, this cohort is the largest since the firm was founded, underscoring our dedication to fostering the next generation of legal professionals.

We are delighted to have welcomed the following students:

• Alex Lépine
• Béatrice Légasse
• Camille Thélisma
• Félix Hurtubise
• Maxime Lemieux
• Myriam Lefebvre
• Rémi Desparois

These future lawyers will carry on the tradition of excellence that has defined LCM for the past decade. By joining our team, they bring their energy, eagerness to learn, and passion, while benefiting from a supportive environment that equips them to tackle the complex challenges of litigation.

We look forward to seeing them grow with our team and play an active part in the future of the profession!

***

The year now drawing to a close has been a memorable one for LCM Attorneys, marked by pivotal events and unifying initiatives that reinforced our commitment to our clients, our team and our vision for the future:

A celebratory cocktail party to mark 10 years of success: The highlight of the year was undoubtedly the firm’s 10^th year anniversary cocktail party, held in June at the elegant Atrium of Maison Alcan. Firm members, clients, friends and colleagues from all walks of life gathered to celebrate a decade of excellence and innovation. The event offered the perfect opportunity to thank everyone who has played a role in shaping LCM’s history. It was an evening filled with emotion and lasting memories, marking a promising new chapter for the firm.

A professional retreat in Chicago: In the spring, our lawyers had the opportunity to exchange ideas with their counterparts at the prestigious American firm Jenner & Block LLC, broadening their horizons and enhacing their practice.

A creative day for our support staff: A potluck lunch, guided meditation and a painting workshop highlighted this convivial retreat for the firm’s administrative team, who is integral to our firm’s success.

A summer getaway in the Eastern Townships: The entire team enjoyed a visit to a vineyard and a country-style lunch, creating an opportunity for relaxation and connection in a laid-back environment, fostering collaboration and team spirit.

A stay in nature for our associates: At LCM, we prioritize the balance between professionalism and camaraderie. This year, our associates enjoyed a weekend in the great outdoors, filled with kayaking adventures, campfire evenings, playful debates, and board games. It was an ideal occasion to recharge, strengthen relationships, and build team unity.

A noteworthy arrival: December 2024 also marks the arrival of Mtre Catherine Bleau, our new Senior Director, Administration and Talent. Catherine’s role at LCM will be central to our growth, overseeing legal resources, promoting the professional development of our team members, and optimizing organizational processes, while also enhancing our well-being and retention initiatives. With her strategic vision and commitment to excellence, Catherine will undoubtedly help shape the future of our firm.

All these events perfectly reflect our philosophy: a close-knit team is the key to our collective success!

***

Over the years, five dynamic committees have been established within the firm to lead key initiatives that drive our continuous growth and serve as genuine catalysts for positive change. Their collective efforts provide a global perspective on our challenges, objectives and daily actions.

Here’s a look at their impact over the past year:

• The B.E.S.T. committee: Focused on the firm’s social and environmental responsibilities, this committee organized several noteworthy activities in 2024, including a food drive for Sun Youth, a collaboration with Mères avec pouvoir, and the installation of redeemable beverage containers in the office. An interactive workshop called The Climate Fresk also raised the team’s awareness of environmental issues and encouraged us to reassess some of our practices in order to reduce our environmental footprint as a firm.
• The Course aux stages committee: Tasked with recruiting the next generation of lawyers, this committee held numerous meetings with law students, including a cocktail party at Bar Georges, visits to law faculties across the province, and tours of our office. These initiatives have helped raise the profile of our boutique litigation practice among future talent.
• The Diversity and Inclusion committee: With its inclusive approach, this committee led several impactful initiatives, such as a lunchtime conference on inclusive writing with the organization En clair, and the celebration of significant events like the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, Black History Month, International Women’s Rights Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
• The Knowledge Management committee: A true driver of internal innovation, this committee launched a knowledge-sharing platform that enhances the efficiency and uniformity of the firm’s processes. It has also developed practical templates that streamline our daily work while maintaining our standard of excellence.
• The Social and Well-being Committee: Promoting a welcoming atmosphere within the LCM team, this committee fosters team spirit through themed evenings, sports outings, board game nights, and various other initiatives throughout the year. It embodies our vision of a healthy, collaborative work environment.

***

In 2024, the firm was pleased to welcome four articling students from the École du Barreau du Québec: Alexandre Gervais-Johnson, Émilien Morin-Lévesque, Ilana Daulan and Joshua Werber.

Mtre Orso Girard-Thibodeau, who completed his articling with us in 2023, joined LCM as a lawyer in early 2024.

These young lawyers, renowned for their rigor and ingenuity, perfectly embody the values that are at the heart of LCM’s success. Their arrival underscores our commitment to providing personalized legal services that blend creativity, excellence, and passion.

***

The year 2024 marks a historic milestone for LCM Attorneys with the appointment of three new partners, reflecting the firm’s evolution and expansion of its expertise.

A member of the Quebec Bar since 2014, Mtre Lucy-Maude Lachance stands out for her active role in the firm’s management and her exemplary practice in civil and commercial litigation, construction law, and employment law. She embodies LCM’s values of excellence, while playing a key role in the firm’s strategic development and in mentoring the next generation.

A lawyer since 2003, Mtre Alberto Martinez excels in civil and commercial litigation and dispute resolution. Over the years, Alberto has taken on numerous roles: experienced litigator, seasoned workplace investigator, and outstanding educator – teaching the law of obligations at Université de Montréal. Known for his strategic approach and unwavering dedication to his clients, Alberto brings invaluable experience and insight to LCM.

Admitted to the Bar in 1986, Mtre Bernard Boucher is a prominent figure in bankruptcy and insolvency law. Widely recognized for his expertise, he is also an accomplished litigator, a frequently cited author and a sought-after speaker. His arrival in the fall of 2024 consolidates LCM’s capacity to provide innovative solutions tailored to the complex issues faced by its clients.

These appointments reinforce LCM’s commitment to delivering first-rate legal services across a wide range of fields, ensuring excellence at every stage of a dispute.

***

The year 2024 will go down in LCM Attorneys history: for the first time, a member of the firm has been appointed to the bench! In fact, correction: two members of the firm have received such an honor!

The Honourables Nicholas Daudelin and Patrick Ferland, former partners of the firm, were respectively appointed Judge of the Court of Quebec on February 1^st, 2024, and Judge of the Superior Court on March 26, 2024, both for the district of Montreal.

These appointments not only highlight their exemplary competence and dedication but also reflect the caliber of professionals who have helped forge LCM’s reputation as a leader in litigation.

We are incredibly proud to have counted Nicholas and Patrick among our colleagues and are grateful for the positive impact they have had in shaping the firm from its very beginnings. We wish them continued success in this exciting new chapter of their careers!

***

As we welcomed 2024, we took advantage of this symbolic year to unveil our new brand image. Rooted in a decade of achievements and focused on the future, this transformation reflects our ambition, commitment to excellence and our prominent position within the legal landscape.

For our clients, colleagues, and future talents, this renewal is a promise: to remain a benchmark in the field of litigation, always attuned to the needs and aspirations of our clients.

A modern design with a bold vision:
This new visual identity embodies our evolution and our drive to push boundaries. The revamped design captures both the precision of our practice and the innovation that defines our approach to litigation. It’s a strong image, meant to inspire confidence, leave a lasting impression, while remaining true to our core values.

A clear message for the future:
With this redesign, we are proudly asserting our leadership role and our ability to tackle the most complex legal challenges. This new brand image is more than just an aesthetic change. It symbolizes our desire to continue writing our story with passion, creativity and determination.

LCM Attorneys is entering a new era, more determined than ever to redefining the standards of legal excellence. As our slogan aptly states, “we speak litigation”!

***

We wish you a happy end to 2024 and look forward to seeing you in 2025!