12 février 2024

Launch of the campaign Méfiez-vous

Launch of the campaign Méfiez-vous takes aim at fake lawyers in immigration law

Today the Barreau de Montréal unveiled the campaign Mefiez-vous which seeks to protect some of the most vulnerable members of our society. The goal of the campaign is to raise awareness regarding the presence of fake lawyers with simple tools in multiple languages. The campaign also includes a simple process to verify if an individual assisting with a person’s immigration process is qualified to do so. In cases where they are not, an easy-to-use form to report a fake lawyer can be found on the Barreau de Montréal website.

“For anyone leaving their country to settle here, it is essential to have the right support. The Méfiez-vous campaign offers resources to help those going through the immigration process to place their trust in the right people,” said Me David Ettedgui, Batonnier of the Barreau de Montréal. “Entrusting your immigration file to a fake lawyer can have major consequences on your settlement process in Canada.”

The Barreau de Montréal is working in collaboration with community groups and governmental organizations that work closely with victims of illegal practices by fake lawyers. These essential partners in the campaign are well placed to communicate vital information to individuals who are at risk.

“The Barreau’s mission is to protect the public,” said Me Ettedgui. “Raising awareness about the existence of illegal practice enables people to easily locate legitimate lawyers and provide the right resources that help prevent illegal practice and better protect those at risk.”

Between 2018 and 2023, the share of reported complaints the Barreau de Montréal received regarding immigration rose from 13% to 39%, which is likely only the tip of the iceberg.

Dedicated web site

Additional information and resources related to the Méfiez-vous campaign can be found on our website or by visiting fauxavocat.ca

About the Barreau de Montréal

The Barreau de Montréal was founded in 1849 and today brings together close to 17,000 lawyers in Greater Montreal. Its mission is to protect the public while supporting its members in the practice of their profession. Learn more at www.barreaudemontreal.qc.ca/en.

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Source :

Valériane Boschetti Dumont
Senior Communication and Marketing Officer, Barreau de Montréal
E: vbdumont@barreaudemontreal.qc.ca
T: 514 866-9530