Cour municipale de la Ville de Trois-Rivières – Trois-Rivières, QC

Municipal Court of Trois-Rivières

Judicial Authority and Jurisdiction

The Cour municipale de Trois-Rivières is a court of first instance with jurisdiction over civil and penal matters occurring within the city limits and partnered municipalities (such as Bécancour and Saint-Maurice). Located in the Cap-de-la-Madeleine sector, this court is distinct from the provincial courthouse on Rue Hart. It primarily adjudicates cases related to the violation of municipal bylaws and specific provincial laws. The court plays a key role in maintaining local order, enforcing regulations on everything from traffic safety to urban planning standards.

Penal and Criminal Matters

The court hears cases involving:

• Traffic Violations: Contestation of speeding tickets, parking infractions, and other offences under the Quebec Highway Safety Code.
• Municipal Bylaws: Infractions related to noise disturbances, animal control, waste management, and zoning violations.
• Summary Convictions: Under part XXVII of the Criminal Code, the court handles certain less serious criminal offences, such as disturbing the peace or simple assault, providing a more local venue for justice.

Payment and Administrative Services

For citizens who do not wish to contest their tickets, the courthouse offers a service counter for the payment of fines and costs. Services include:

• Fine Payment: Acceptance of pleas of guilty and payment of fines. Payments can be made in person, by mail, or increasingly via online portals.
• Payment Agreements: Citizens experiencing financial hardship can apply for a payment arrangement (entente de paiement) or compensatory work orders, subject to the collector’s approval.
• Judicial Records: Processing requests for information regarding a file, including retraction of judgment applications if a defendant was convicted by default.

Courtroom Procedures

When contesting a ticket, citizens appear before a municipal judge. The court follows strict procedural rules:

• Hearings: Defendants have the right to be heard, present evidence, and cross-examine witnesses (often the police officer who issued the ticket).
• Legal Representation: While many citizens represent themselves, they have the right to be represented by a lawyer.
• Decorum: Strict decorum is enforced. Cell phones must be turned off, and respectful attire is mandatory.