Member of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: May 8, 2003
• Invested on: February 20, 2004

Lawrence Poitras has played a key role in improving how the judiciary functions and making the Canadian legal system more efficient. This former judge of the Superior Court of Quebec introduced reforms that significantly reduced waiting times for hearings. We have him to thank for, among other things, the sentencing option program for dispute resolution. He is also known for his expertise in the area of conflict resolution. Involved in several professional and community organizations, he is a founding member and former chair of the Canadian Superior Court Judges Association. This eminent jurist has received many honours, including the first Barreau du Québec medal.