Me Caroline Simard
Education
Born in Lac-Saint-Jean, I chose to study in Ottawa to participate in the National Program. I obtained my Civil Law Degree cum laude in 1996 and my Common Law Baccalaureate magna cum laude in 1997.
I am the daughter of a general contractor and have had the desire to pursue my career in Construction law and Municipal law since I was a student, to follow in my father’s footsteps, in my own way.
Career Path
I completed my internship in a professional firm working in Municipal Law. Admitted as a member of the Québec Bar in 1999, I subsequently accepted the position as a lawyer in civil litigation with the City of Gatineau.
To pursue Construction Law, in 2002 I worked as an employee in a private practice in Gatineau with one of the best lawyers in this field, who is now a judge of the Superior Court.
In 2007, wanting to test my entrepreneurial skills, I decided to branch out on my own and joined the team of a young Gatineau office. Two years later, it was with great pleasure that I opened my own office: Caroline Simard, avocate. From 2016 to 2021, I did business under Simard Desrochers avocats and following the departure of my partner, I incorporated the name of my former office: Caroline Simard avocate inc.
Teaching
Recognizing the importance of sharing my knowledge, in 2000 I agreed to teach advocacy courses at the University of Ottawa, a class I taught for many years afterwards. Also, I taught for one year the Criminal Law class and the Civil law class to the students from the Techniques Policières at the Cégep de l’Outaouais.
I have also taught the Liability class and Municipal Law class at the University of Ottawa on some occasions.
On request, I also give lectures to members of the APCHQ and to businesses.
Practice
In more than 22 years of practice, I have had the opportunity to represent large and small-scale municipalities, entrepreneurs, traders, developers and many individuals in matters related to my fields of specialization, and this, in several areas of law.
These cases brought me before all levels of court in Quebec, including the Court of Appeal and the Administrative Court, as well as acting as legal advisor in several cases of strategic and major importance, to negotiate and draft many contracts, regulations and even procedures at the Supreme Court of Canada.
I also act as an arbitrator in cases of Civil Law and Commercial Law.
Social Involvement
I consider it important to be involved with my community, which is why I served on the boards of the Caisse Desjardins Hull-Aylmer and Collège Nouvelles Frontières for several years, as well as on the boards of the Fondation de la Forêt Boucher and the SPCA de L’Outaouais. I also support several other private organizations working for the animal cause, a cause that is very dear to my heart.
Hobbies
Sports are a big part of my life. I prioritize horseback riding, mountain hiking and biking, fat bike, fitness training and paddle board. I also enjoy reading and riding my motorcycle.
Send a question or contact request to Me Caroline Simard