A Canadian lawyer and judge who served on the Quebec Court of Appeal and was a prominent advocate for human rights and social justice. He is particularly notable for his role in shaping Canadian law and policy on issues like abortion and same-sex marriage.
Jules Deschnes, a renowned Canadian jurist, is best known for his pivotal role as Chief Justice of the Quebec Superior Court and his tireless efforts in promoting human rights and justice globally.
Born on June 7, 1923, in Montreal, Quebec, Deschnes was the son of Wilfrid Deschnes and Berthe Brard. He completed his grade school education under the supervision of les Clercs de Saint-Viateur and classical studies under les Messieurs de Saint-Sulpice. He later graduated from the University of Montreal and was admitted to the Bar of Quebec in 1946.
Deschnes practiced law from 1946 to 1960 and was named Queen's Counsel in 1961. In 1962, he was elected to the Council of the Bar of Montreal and began teaching law at the University of Montreal. His exceptional work earned him an honorary doctorate from Concordia University in 1981.
In 1985, Deschnes was appointed to head the Commission of Inquiry on War Criminals in Canada, investigating alleged war criminals in Canada. His report, submitted in 1986, officially reprimanded special interest groups within the Jewish Canadian community for tabling grossly exaggerated claims.
Deschnes' commitment to human rights and justice extended beyond Canada. From 1984 to 1987, he was involved with the United Nations Sub-Commission on the Prevention of Discrimination and the Protection of Minorities. He later sat on the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia from 1993 to 1997.
In 1988, Deschnes published his autobiography, Sur la ligne de feu, chronicling his remarkable career. After his passing in 2000, he was entombed at the Notre Dame des Neiges Cemetery in Montreal.
Jules Deschnes' extraordinary life and career serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to promoting justice, human rights, and the rule of law. His legacy continues to inspire generations of jurists, lawyers, and human rights activists worldwide.
Born in 1919
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