Practical guide — Quebec
After an arrest in Quebec: what happens now?
The first hours are stressful. The goal is not to handle the case alone, but to protect your rights, keep the right documents and prevent an administrative oversight from making matters worse.
1. Ask why you are detained and speak with counsel
Section 10 of the Charter provides that a person who is arrested or detained must be informed promptly of the reasons and be able to retain and instruct counsel without delay. Clearly say that you wish to exercise that right. Get advice tailored to the situation before discussing the facts. Specific rules may apply in some settings, including roadside investigations.
2. Keep every document you receive
Keep the undertaking, release order, appearance notice, summons, identification documents and every page showing a date or location together. Photograph them clearly as a backup, but do not publish or send them to people who do not need them.
3. Record facts while they are fresh
Write a factual timeline: approximate times, locations, people present, items seized, documents provided and important words you remember. Distinguish what you personally observed from what someone else told you.
4. Treat court dates and conditions as priorities
Enter every date in two reminders immediately. Read each condition word for word and seek advice if it is ambiguous or difficult to follow. Informal permission from another person does not change a court document. The Criminal Code creates offences related to failing to attend or comply with certain conditions.
5. Prepare for the next call
Use our consultation preparation tool to collect the documents, next date and questions. In an immediate safety or medical emergency, call emergency services; a law firm website is not an emergency service.
Verification
Official sources
Links checked on August 20, 2026. Always consult the current official text.
FAQ
Common questions
Can I wait before speaking with a lawyer?
Every situation differs, but decisions and obligations may begin at arrest or release. Prompt advice can clarify the exact document and immediate next steps.
What if I do not understand a condition?
Do not guess. Keep the document, avoid conduct that may be prohibited and promptly seek advice about the exact wording and applicable procedure.
Should I keep texts, photos or videos?
Do not destroy or alter potentially relevant material. Preserve it securely and ask your lawyer how it should be provided.
Your situation is specific
Get advice based on the actual documents
Our criminal defence team serves Montreal, Gatineau, Maniwaki and surrounding areas in French and English.