QUID NOVI Université McGill, McGill University, Faculté de Droit Faculty of Law Volume 31, no. 17 Volume 31, no. 17 30 mars 20 10 March 3 0th, 2 010 QUID NOVI IN THIS ISSUE... Editorial/Éditorial QUIDNOVI by Courtney Retter 3661 Peel Street 3.J.D./LL.B. Montréal, Québec (LAW II) H2A 1X1 3. A Year on Pedagogy (514) 398-4430 http://quid.mcgill.ca/ Reflections on Rejection 4. Animal Law Caleb Cushing, Attorney General to Editors-in-Chief 6. Traffic Act 4 President Franklin Pierce, said the fol- Courtney Retter Chanel Sterie lowing in consideration of the function 6. Passing the Quebec Bar - part 5 of rejection: “It is impossible, in my In-House Diva mind, to distinguish between the refusal Charlie Feldman 12. Court of Sartorial Appeal to receive a petition, or its summary re- Webmaster jection by some general order, and the Ryan Schwartz 15. A Chinese Masterpiece denial of the right of petition.” Rejection is allegedly a human necessity; it pro- Layout Editors 17. Third Year Class President Report vides individuals with an opportunity for James Nowlan Lexi Pace self-assessment that otherwise would be unavailable. No matter the type of Associate Editors rejection or the reason for being re- Stefanie Carsley Eliza Cohen jected, all rejections are unified by the Michelle Felsky following fundamental reality: it sucks. Andrea Girardin Faizel Gulamhussein But hey, rejection loves company. Fred Daniel Haboucha Astaire was called, “balding, skinny, can Allison Jaskolka dance little” at his first audition. Albert Bonnie King Ilya Kirtsman Einstein’s parents feared he was sub- Mathieu Kissin VISITTHENEWLY-UP- normal. Walt Disney was fired for “lack- Marie-Pier Leduc Carrie Levitt DATED QUIDWEBSITE ing ideas”. And perhaps, most famous Corey Omer of all, Michael Jordan was cut from his Evan Paperman high school basketball team. I spent the Brett Pedvis http://quid.mcgill.ca/ David Rapps last weekend assessing the benefits of Christina Sauro being denied what one ultimately wants Laura Scheim Nikita Stepin (Thanks to Webmaster Ryan and, subsequently, asked both friends Lucinda Tang Schwartz!!) and family members what they saw as Eva Warden Krista Zeman the potential advantages of being re- jected. Staff Writers Featuring: ISSUESIN Chase Bartlét PDF!!!! Andrea Girardin Michael Shortt Continued on p. 17 Marc Tacheji C’est tellement incroyable!
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Les opinions exprimées sont propres aux auteurs et ne réflètent pas nécessairement celles de l’équipe du Quid Novi.
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Contributions should preferably be submitted as a .doc attachment (and not, for instance, a “.docx.”). Contributions should also include the student year of the contributor. 2 30 MARS 2010 J.D./LL.B. by Malcolm Lavoie (LAW I)
The J.D.-LL.B. Committee of the L.S.A. “legal laws” doesn’t make any sense, is anything resembling a regard for the recently released its final report, which being fairly obviously redundant. Our faculty’s link with the British legal tradi- purported to provide “basic information common law degree is, of course, a tion. One gets the impression that stu- pertaining to the possible conversion of Bachelor of Laws. The two L’s stand for dents would just as soon change the McGill’s Faculty of Law LL.B. designation “laws.” name of the degree to “Super Xtreme to a J.D. designation.” At least one piece Law Doctor!” if they thought it would of basic information seems to have Unfortunately, this is symptomatic of help them get jobs in New York. Maybe been neglected, though. On page 1, in the perfunctory treatment given to the they would. Maybe the fix is in. But let’s bold type, the title reads “The Juris cultural heritage represented by our at least demonstrate enough historical Doctor and the Bachelor of Legal Laws.” humble common law degree in the con- awareness to get the name of our de- The “Bachelor of Legal Laws” is then version debate so far. Nowhere among gree right. discussed in greater detail. Yet the term the “major considerations” in the report A Year on Pedagogy by Prof. Piper, Chair Curriculum Committee The Faculty of Law’s Curriculum Com- when feedback is received early and nificant time this year investigating the mittee undertook a process this year of often (exams, graded assignments, experience of students in second year involving members of Faculty in think- etc.); and when students are engaged at the Faculty. As part of this effort, the ing and learning about teaching. We in collaborative experiences. The dis- Committee supported a student pro- thought that you might be interested in cussion during the workshop explored posal from Stefan Hoffman to increase hearing about some of those activities. how to achieve these objectives in the the credit weight of Legal Meth II, pass- The Curriculum Committee comprises law classroom. ing a resolution at Faculty Council to in- five professors (Piper, Brooks, Mégret, crease it from 2 to 3 credits. This Lametti, Van Praagh), two Assistant Workshop #2 “Methods of Evalua- change will reflect the importance and Deans (Strategic Planning and Student tion”: Professors Ellis, Fox-Decent, the effort that students invest in the Life and Learning), two student repre- Leckey and Brooks each presented their course. The course will also be re- sentatives (Stefan Hoffman and Sarah experiences with methods (other than named to emphasize a focus on profes- Goldbaum), Mtre. Boyer (Head Librar- 100% final examinations) that they use sional responsibility. This inquiry into ian) and Ms. Czemmel from the SAO. to assess student learning. Twenty-two the second year will continue next aca- The Committee manages and initiates faculty members attended the event demic year. A sub-committee has been curricular reform and this past aca- which included a discussion that em- formed of Associate Dean Lametti, Prof. demic year was given a specific man- phasized that effective assessment Piper and Stefan Hoffman that has met date by Dean Jutras to consider should be formative and allow students with the Dean and over the next year pedagogy at the Faculty. To do this, the to see their improvement, and that will be gathering information from stu- Committee designed and held three courses should ideally include multiple dents and professors about how to im- workshops: opportunities for assessment. prove the second year experience.
Workshop #1 “Active Learning Workshop #3 “Teaching Technolo- The Committee also undertook a num- Strategies”: Professors Campbell, Van gies”: Professors Mégret and Piper ber of other activities (reviewing intern- Praagh, Anker and Manderson pre- hosted a roundtable session on teach- ships, course credits and course sented their experiences and specific ing technologies which nineteen profes- evaluation procedures) many of which examples of in-class techniques to en- sors attended. It was held in the new are ongoing. The Committee invites gage students in learning, to a full au- active and collaborative learning class- your thoughts and comments on any of dience of twenty-seven other faculty room, Education 627. It focused on how these initiatives. In particular we en- members. Teaching and learning spe- professors can use technologies in the courage you to continue providing feed- cialists we had invited discussed why classroom to provide feedback, encour- back through completing formal course active learning strategies are important age active learning and enhance com- evaluations (which can be immensely to student learning highlighting that we munication with students. helpful) as well as sharing your learn best when new knowledge is con- thoughts through formal and informal nected to existing knowledge; when the Improving the Second Year Expe- channels. attention of the learner is focused; rience: The Committee also spent sig- 3 QUID NOVI McGill Symposium & Exhibit on Animal Law
by Ashlyn O’Mara (LAW III) & Sophie Gaillard (LAW II)
Many students here might be sur- attendees were McGill and Concordia tween the audience and the speakers. prised to know that animal law is a se- students, students from the Faculty of The issue that dominated these dis- rious field of study and practice in the Law at the University of Ottawa, McGill cussions was how to further animal United States and, after the recent Alumni and Faculty members, officials protection in Canada, a country that is symposium on animal law here at the from the Ministry of Agriculture, staff generally recognized as lagging behind Faculty, it is now clear that this is rap- from the Canadian Federation of Hu- the rest of the Western world in this idly becoming the case in Canada as mane Societies, national media, and area. well. After over a year of planning, the the Swiss Consulate General. Student Animal Legal Defense Fund at SALDF would like to take this opportu- McGill (SALDF) brought together Attendees were given the opportunity nity to thank the Law Students’ Associ- renowned experts in animal law from to learn from several notable partici- ation, the Dean’s Discretionary Fund Switzerland, the United States, and pants. Dr. Antoine Goetschel traveled as well as the Students’ Society of Canada as well as a prominent Cana- all the way from Zurich, Switzerland to McGill University for their generous fi- dian photographer for the McGill Sym- discuss the particularities of his job as nancial support in helping to make this posium and Exhibit on Animal Law. the world’s only public animal welfare Symposium a huge success. Such ac- attorney and the state of animal law in tivity and interest in the relationship True to the transdisciplinary spirit of Switzerland. David Wolfson, who spe- between humans and animals in the our faculty, SALDF mingled art and law cializes in farm animal law and teaches law on the part of students, faculty to produce a powerful week-long animal law at Columbia law school, members, the local community and event showcasing how law students, and Alanna Devine, who is the Direc- the media is a first at a Canadian uni- lawyers and communities in general tor of Animal Welfare at the Montreal versity. Also, we extend a big thank can use the legal system to promote SPCA and fellow McGill law graduate, you to our SALDF members for their the interests of animals. Over 150 discussed the current state of Ameri- time and dedication. people from the McGill community and can and Canadian animal welfare leg- beyond filled the moot court and the islation and paths for future atrium for two evenings of education development. The presentations were and stimulating discussion. Among the followed by animated exchanges be-
4 MARCH 30TH 2010
5 QUID NOVI Traffic Act 4 - Praries
by Guillaume Lavoie (LAW I) “So where are you guys from?” We drove all day on the deserted Trans- n’t feel like pitching their tent. “Well, I Canada Highway. The scenery never have to drop you off somewhere. “We left Quebec City about a week ago, changed. The sun’s course gave us the There’s no room in this car for three we were driving west with friends.” illusion of a shorter trip, though. We people to sleep”. Preventive strike; I talked for a bit, but aside from their re- knew they were going to suggest some- “Those damn bastards!” Let the girl cent misadventure their story was un- thing along those lines. “Listen, I don’t talk, kid. interesting. I didn’t mind the lack of know where you’re going tomorrow, but entertainment and discussion. My head I can drop you off at the airport. Just I was driving with coffee in one hand was heavy from the previous night’s sleep on a bench and pretend you’re and the map on my lap. This wasn’t re- drinks and the limited sleep I had got- waiting for a delayed flight. With some ally planned; I’m not sure how to get to ten before the morning traffic woke me luck, nobody’s gonna bother you.” They Calgary. As we drove through horizons up. I kept my mind on the road and agreed. of empty fields, she explained their sit- tried to ignore the absence of foreign uations. They had indeed left Quebec substance in my blood. They gave me fifty bucks for gas and I City as part of a small caravan, three or drove away. The next day was spent four cars packed to capacity with hip- The sun had just set when Calgary driving through the Rockies, a truly pies and their summer dream to pick started showing up on roadside direc- magnificent sight. Everything was huge, grapes in the Okanagan. Those two had tions. I had never picked up hitchhikers immense! The perfect transition, the tents and planned on camping along before, so I had no idea of where our last obstacle between me and the the way, but the rest wanted to share common trip would end. I had no in- coast. I called a friend in Vancouver be- motel rooms and the luxury of a daily tention of staying around those two fore the phone signal was cut off. She shower. “After a few nights of refusing bores much longer. “Where should I had to leave for Victoria to visit family, to chip in for the motel bills, we were a drop you off? We’ll be in town in less but I convinced her to wait for me. The dead weight to them. They left this than an hour.” They didn’t seem to have slope downhill was steep, but I could morning without waking us up.” Bas- planned this much more than I had. breathe it already. The west coast! Air is tards indeed. The wrong kind, too. “I Rain started falling, pouring harder the combustible; the west coast air is flam- suppose you guys were splitting gas, closer we got to the city, and they did- mable. I was burning inside. though?” I’m the right kind of bastard. Passing the Québec Bar – part 5
by Narimane Nabahi (LAW Alumnus) Passing the Québec Bar – part 5 by Narimane Nabahi (LAW Alumnus)
In the first part of this series of articles, I addressed issues that preceded the actual classes at the Québec Bar. The second part dealt with the issue of books and papers. The third part focused on the day to day classes. The fourth part looked at the bar from a chronological perspective. This article will focus on the “plat de résistance”, which is made up of the four exams you will face. By now I am sure you got used to my articles being in French, and it is great news: every class at the Quebec Bar is in French, so you should either get used to it, seriously consider taking the 8 months program or … let’s not go there.
Disclaimer: insert your favorite warning here – this is simply my personal opinion. Dates, requirements, exam structure, just about everything can change, so use your own judgment when reading this article.
6 30 MARS 2010 Survol et remarques générales Les examens du Barreau ne sont généralement pas des examens où le temps est le facteur le plus critique. On a souvent du temps pour relire ses réponses à la fin des examens. Il y a relativement peu de questions. Par comparaison, au Barreau de New York, la journée d’examen réservée aux questions à choix multiples dure six heures et comprend 200 questions. Il faut répondre à une question en 1 minute 48 secondes. Ce n’est pas le cas au Barreau du Québec, puisque la journée « choix multiples » comprend autour de 17 questions à faire en 4 heures. Bien sûr, il pourrait s’agir de 17 questions très longues, mais ce n’est pas vraiment le cas.
Les questions du Barreau me font un peu penser à la scène finale dans The Matrix, quand Neo découvre qu’il est « The One ». (Pour ceux qui n’ont pas encore vu ce film, inscrivez-le à votre horaire pendant vos cours du Barreau) Il faut donc passer de ça
Figure 1 - Vision pré-”The One”
À ça :
Figure 2 - Vision post-”The One”
Imaginons un problème où un client reçoit la lettre suivante :
7 QUID NOVI Cher client,
Je voulais vous informer que je suis l’électricien qui les rénovations de votre maison. J’ai été engagé par votre entrepreneur général pour travailler sur le filage électrique de votre maison. Quelle belle demeure! J’ai été enchanté par les boiseries que l’on retrouve partout dans votre résidence. Cela me rappelle le chalet de ma grand-mère, où nous allions tous les étés lorsque j’étais petit. Il y avait un grand lac et j’adorais pêcher de magnifiques poissons. Ma grand-mère m’a d’ailleurs donné une délicieuse recette pour faire cuire le poisson. Au passage, j’ai déjà fait 1000$ de travaux chez vous et dois faire un autre 2000$. Si vous voulez ma recette, n’hésitez pas à m’écrire.
Signé
Sous-entrepreneur bavard.
Avez-vous déjà anticipé la question? Quel est le montant de l’hypothèque légale de la construction que le sous-entrepre- neur peut inscrire? Motivez votre réponse.
En utilisant la méthode « Neo » pour lire la question, il faut lire :
Blah client,
Je voulais vous informer que je suis l’électricien qui les rénovations de votre maison. J’ai été engagé par votre entrepreneur général pour travailler sur Blah Blah de votre maison. Blah Blah Blah! Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah. Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah. Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah. Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah. J’ai déjà fait blah de travaux chez vous et doit faire un autre 2000$. Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah.
Signé
Sous-entrepreneur bavard.
Pourquoi cette lecture, mais surtout, quelle réponse? La réponse est en fait un article du Code civil, soit l’article 2728.
2728. L’hypothèque garantit la plus-value donnée à l’immeuble par les travaux, matériaux ou services fournis ou préparés pour ces travaux; mais, lorsque ceux en faveur de qui elle existe n’ont pas eux-mêmes contracté avec le propriétaire, elle est limitée aux travaux, matériaux ou services qui suivent la dénonciation écrite du contrat au propriétaire. L’ouvrier n’est pas tenu de dénoncer son contrat.
Le même principe de lecture s’applique ici. Les mots clés sont « n’ont pas eux-mêmes contracté avec le propriétaire » (tra- duction : sous-entrepreneur), « limitée », « qui suivent la dénonciation écrite » (traduction : la lettre ci-dessus).
On a donc comme réponse: 2000$ – Article 2728 C.c.Q.
On ne va donc pas chercher midi à quatorze heures. Que l’espace pour la réponse soit de 2 lignes ou de 20 lignes, la réponse reste la même. Ce travail de décodage est, selon moi, crucial pour réussir les questions du Barreau. Il est nécessaire, car il permet de correctement guider sa recherche.
Le hic, c’est qu’il n’est pas toujours évident de savoir lequel des éléments est important. Par exemple, le fait que l’électri- cien ait déjà fait 1000$ de travaux est-il important pour la réponse? On serait tenté de dire oui, mais la réponse est non, puisque ce montant représente du travail déjà fait par le sous-entrepreneur avant la dénonciation du contrat. Que ce mon-
8 MARCH 30TH 2010 tant soit 0$, 1000$ ou 10000$, cet élément n’a aucun impact sur la réponse.
Il faut en réalité se demander, en bon français, « c’est quoi le catch? ». Le catch ici, c’est la dénonciation tardive. En faisant notre recherche, on doit savoir un peu ce qu’on recherche. Hypothèque légale de la construction? Oui, mais encore. Sous entrepreneur? Oui, mais encore. Dénonciation tardive? On est très proche.
Imaginons que l’article 2728 et son principe nous étaient inconnus. Il aurait été possible de le trouver. Comment procéder alors? Première idée, chercher dans l’index à « construction » ou « constructeur ». Ça ne marche pas, mais à « construc- tion », on peut lire « Voir aussi Hypothèque légale ». On va donc à « hypothèque légale ». Dans cette rubrique, on retrouve « personne ayant participé à construction ou à rénovation d’immeuble 2724(2), 2726-2728, 2952, 3061.
Il faut donc aller lire ces articles. Il est beaucoup plus facile de trouver la réponse si l’on sait d’avance les éléments de la ques- tion qui risquent d’être importants pour la réponse. On peut ne pas savoir la réponse, mais on sait au moins qu’on doit cher- cher un article qui traite de sous-traitant, de lettre, de montant, et de travaux. On ne cherche ni poisson, ni recette de cuisine, ni boiseries.
Lorsqu’on lit l’article 2726, on aurait peut-être l’envie de s’arrêter de chercher. Voici l’article:
2726. L’hypothèque légale en faveur des personnes qui ont participé à la construction ou à la rénovation d’un immeuble ne peut gre- ver que cet immeuble. Elle n’est acquise qu’en faveur des architecte, ingénieur, fournisseur de matériaux, ouvrier, entrepreneur ou sous- entrepreneur, à raison des travaux demandés par le propriétaire de l’immeuble, ou à raison des matériaux ou services qu’ils ont fournis ou préparés pour ces travaux. Elle existe sans qu’il soit nécessaire de la publier.
On remarque le mot « sous-entrepreneur ». Aucune notion de lettre, de montant, etc. Sans lire l’article 2728, on pourrait conclure que la réponse est « 3000$, Article 2726 C.C.Q. » Ceci aurait été visiblement faux. La meilleure manière d’éviter ce genre de problème, outre avoir bien étudié au préalable, est non seulement de lire les autres articles pertinents, mais aussi de les lire en sachant ce qu’on cherche. Et j’irais même plus loin, lorsqu’on a correctement identifié l’article 2728, on va tout de même lire les autres articles qui pourraient être pertinents. Ceci inclut les articles qu’on a trouvés dans l’index et ceux indiqués sous l’article 2728, sans compter ceux qui se trouvent autour de l’article 2728. De cette manière, on a bien fait le tour de la question et l’on comprend la réponse que le Barreau désirait.
Ce n’est pas souvent facile de faire ce travail. Dans de nombreux cas, « le catch » ne se détecte que lorsque l’on a trouvé l’article. Il faut en réalité activer un peu son « spider sense », qu’il faudrait plutôt renommé « Barreau sense ». Il faut lire la question en relevant les éléments que l’on trouve suspects. D’ailleurs, je n’avais pas mentionné comme élément possible le fait qu’il s’agissait ici d’une maison (versus un immeuble commercial). Lors de ma lecture, il aurait également été bon d’être attentif à ce détail. Peut-être que l’article 2728 fait une distinction entre le genre d’immeuble? Ce n’est pas le cas ici, mais c’est le genre de détails qu’il faut détecter. Et bien sûr, mieux on choisit nos détails, mieux on peut identifier l’article perti- nent.
Se pratiquer Comment peut-on donc se pratiquer pour bien faire à ces examens et à ce genre de questions? Plusieurs techniques, utili- sées collectivement, permettent de bien se préparer.
La première a déjà été mentionnée plusieurs fois. Il faut absolument faire ses annexes avant d’aller en classe. J’ai décrit une méthode pour faire ses annexes dans un article antérieur, mais peu importe la méthode, il faut apprendre le plus de « si- tuations » en faisant ses annexes. Une question similaire à celle que nous venons de voir s’est retrouvée à la question 3 de l’annexe 4 du jour 42… et à l’examen final.
La seconde technique consiste à faire les anciens examens. Même s’ils sont de plus en plus vieux, ils sont toujours utiles. À travers les anciens examens, tout comme à travers les annexes, on découvre des articles des différents codes, à la différence
9 QUID NOVI que dans le cas des anciens examens, on peut aussi voir une réponse « officielle » d’examen. Pour beaucoup d’entre nous, c’est là que nous sommes confrontés à la brièveté des réponses. Pour bien apprécier comment les réponses peuvent être brèves, regardez le problème suivant :
Mina Habibi et Stefan Lewis se rencontrent le 10 mai 1989. À cette époque, Stefan exploite un commerce de fleurs hérité de sa mère en 1985. Mina et Stefan se marient à Montréal le 8 août 1990 et ne font précéder leur union d’aucun contrat de mariage. Aucun enfant n’est issu de leur union.
En janvier 2000, les conjoints achètent en copropriété, pour la somme de 150 000 $, un immeuble à revenus de cinq logements à Hud- son. Les cinq logements sont loués. Lors de l’achat, Stefan verse 20 000 $ comptant, provenant de l’héritage de sa mère, et les conjoints financent le solde par une hypothèque auprès de la Banque TD.
En janvier 2002, le couple vend l’immeuble au prix de 175 000 $ et utilise cette somme afin d’acquérir, en copropriété, pour la somme de 180 000 $, un nouvel immeuble à logements en remplacement du précédent. Une hypothèque de 135 000 $ est contractée par le couple auprès de la Banque TD.
En juin 2003, Stefan décide de faire des rénovations au commerce de fleurs et pour ce faire, contracte une hypothèque au montant de 15 000 $ auprès de la Caisse populaire d’Hudson. Le solde du montant nécessaire pour parachever les travaux est fourni par Mina, qui verse à Stefan la somme de 10 000 $ provenant de ses économies accumulées au cours du mariage.
En septembre 2003, Mina quitte Stefan et désire mettre un terme à leur mariage. Le bilan des conjoints est alors le suivant :
[J’ai supprimé le bilan qui prend plus d’une page]
Voici la question. Ce genre de question représente de 2 à 3 % de votre notre finale au Barreau.
Quel droit Mina Habibi peut-elle faire valoir relativement à la somme de 10 000 $ investie dans la rénovation du commerce de fleurs?
Appuyez votre réponse en faisant référence à la ou aux dispositions précises et pertinentes du Code civil du QuØbec.
Combien de mots sont nécessaires pour répondre à la question et ramasser les 2% de notre note finale?
Une demande de prestation compensatoire, art. 427 al. 1 C.c.Q.
On parle donc de 10 mots. Je parierais même que la personne qui aurait omis les mots « Une demande de » aurait tout de même eu ses points. Avant le premier examen, une réponse en 10 mots à une question qui représente 2% de ma note fi- nale était pour moi un concept très abstrait. Après le premier examen, ce concept a guidé toutes mes réponses.
La troisième technique – et elle est risquée – est de se pratiquer lors des deux premiers examens. Il faut le voir comme un investissement. À mon premier examen, j’ai répondu à une question trop largement : j’ai mis un argument subsidiaire. Le résultat : j’ai perdu tous mes points pour cette question. À mon second examen, j’ai eu très peur et pour une des questions, j’ai mis une réponse trop courte. Résultat : aucun point encore. Tout était en place pour l’examen final. J’ai bien ciblé les ré- ponses, et j’ai recueilli la vaste majorité des points aux questions de la deuxième journée. Ma suggestion est donc de ne pas avoir peur aux deux premiers examens. C’est le moment de vérifier si l’on cible bien nos réponses. C’est le moment d’écrire des réponses d’une ligne sur des pages 8 par 14 pouces en ayant peur de ne pas en avoir mis assez. 10 30 MARS 2010 Piège à éviter S’il y a un piège à éviter, surtout pour des étudiants de McGill, c’est le mot « ou ». Si dans votre réponse vous êtes en train de donner deux solutions, surtout deux solutions contradictoires, il y a de fortes chances que vous ayez totalement loupé la question et que vous allez perdre tous vos points pour cette question, même si vous avez mis tous les bons éléments de réponse. Ceci est particulièrement vrai si votre « ou » est relié à l’interprétation des faits. Par exemple, si après un problème traitant de secret professionnel, on vous demande s’il y a ou non secret professionnel, la pire chose à faire est de répondre « Oui, mais… » Les chances sont que c’est, soit faux, soit hors sujet. Au deuxième examen, une question portait sur le droit des obligations et nous devions déterminer combien une personne pouvait réclamer pour un contrat de peinture mal exé- cuté. Deux montants m’apparaissaient comme possibles : l’argent que la personne avait déboursé pour corriger le pro- blème ou le montant pour lequel l’entrepreneur aurait pu réparer lui-même le problème. La réponse : aucun de ces deux choix, car il n’y avait pas eu de mise en demeure au préalable. Le chiffre était donc zéro. La morale : si deux options contra- dictoires semblent possibles, c’est possible que la vraie question soit totalement autre.
Première évaluation : l’examen de déontologie Cet examen est venu officiellement mettre fin à mon été. À lui seul, il m’a fait oublier les magnifiques geysers de Yellows- tone. La première évaluation a lieu moins de deux semaines après le début des festivités, et dure trois heures. Notée sur 15 points, elle comporte en réalité peu de questions. Si ma mémoire est bonne, notre examen était composé d’une ques- tion sur 5 points, de deux questions de 3 points et les autres entre 1 et 2 points. La question sur 5 points était une longue histoire dans laquelle il fallait trouver dix manquements déontologiques. Plus on trouvait de manquements, plus on avait des points. C’est la seule question où l’on pouvait avoir des points partiels. Dans les autres cas, c’était tout bon ou tout faux : on ne pouvait pas obtenir une partie des points à la question. Il faut dire que cette approche (0 ou 100%, rien entre les deux) est celle la plus employée par le Barreau. Comme tous les examens, ce n’est pas une course contre la montre.
Par contre, il faut le rappeler, une note sous la barre des 9 points vous force à faire la formation supplémentaire de 6 heures. Il faut aussi faire attention lorsque l’on donne un article « général » comme justification à un manquement déontologique, puisque ces articles sont souvent considérés comme imprécis.
Deuxième évaluation : la rédaction Ça s’appelle rédaction, mais ce n’est pas que de la rédaction. Cet examen est aussi noté sur 15 points. Il durait 3 heures. Le sujet a été annoncé 3 semaines à l’avance. Enfin, sujet est un bien grand mot, puisque la consigne disait : « L’évaluation notée 2 comportera deux dossiers en droit civil ». Bref, à part le droit des affaires, presque tout ce que nous avions couvert s’y re- trouvait.
Dans notre cas, 9 points étaient alloués à la rédaction d’une requête introductive d’instance. Cette question était presque identique à ceux que nous avions faits en classe. Les six autres points étaient répartis entre 3 questions sur le droit civil. Là encore, les 9 points étaient « décomposables », mais pas les 2 points alloués pour chacune des questions qui suivaient. Les questions de 2 points étaient comme celles que l’on retrouve au début de cet article.
Il faut bien faire attention aux détails dans l’exercice de rédaction, et par détails j’inclus les éléments comme le numéro de dossier qu’il ne faut pas inventer s’il n’existe pas encore, l’adresse exacte des parties, etc. Rien de pire que de perdre des points pour ces éléments assez faciles. Aussi, il est utile de savoir quoi écrire comme conclusions recherchées, en particu- lier sur les questions de montants et de date à laquelle les intérêts commencent à compter.
Évaluation finale C’est en fait deux examens, tous deux de quatre heures. La première journée nous avons eu droit à 17 questions à choix multiples. Pour certaines questions, il fallait choisir plusieurs choix. Bien que l’on associe souvent les choix multiples à une occasion d’utiliser le hasard pour répondre à des questions difficiles, les questions du Barreau se prêtent mal à cet exercice. Il y a peu de questions, et les probabilités de réussir une question en répondant au hasard sont au mieux de 20% et au pire 11 QUID NOVI de 1% (si par exemple il faut choisir un nombre indéterminé de bulles pour une question). De plus, ces questions ne sont pas faciles. Pour notre examen, les 17 questions valaient 34 points, soit 2 points chacune.
Le lendemain, c’est un examen qui ressemble beaucoup aux genres de questions qu’on peut voir ci-dessus : long énoncé, suivi d’une question qui ne nécessite qu’une réponse courte. Ici par contre, il y a eu quelques questions où l’on pouvait avoir des points partiels. C’était le cas de la question de déontologie : nous devions identifier des manquements déontologiques et avec référence aux articles précis des lois. Cependant, il ne faut surtout pas miser sur cet aspect lorsque l’on rédige une réponse.
Les sujets avaient été annoncés un mois à l’avance, et nous savions les sujets au menu pour chacune des journées. Par contre, nous ne savions pas combien de points correspondraient à chacun des sujets. Même si nous n’avions que 3 sujets à l’examen final (jour 2), dont déontologie, sur 36 points, seulement 4 traitaient de déontologie, les 32 points restants étaient divisés entre le droit pénal et le droit de la famille. Il ne faut donc pas trop célébrer lorsque l’on voit son sujet fa- vori, puisqu’il ne pourrait y avoir seulement quelques points accordés pour ce sujet.
Épilogue Il ne reste plus qu’à attendre la note globale. La note apparaît sur le site web du Barreau, comme les deux autres notes pré- cédentes. Il ne reste plus qu’à célébrer… ou malheureusement étudier pour la reprise. Cela arrive, mais il faut se retrous- ser les manches et se remettre au boulot. La liste des sujets est annoncée environ un mois à l’avance. Elle a même été annoncée avant les résultats de l’examen final.
* * *
Et voici ce qui conclut ce cinquième article sur le Barreau. Dans mon sixième et dernier article, j’aborderai des sujets un peu plus légers! Si vous avez des questions, n’hésitez pas à les envoyer à narimane.nabahi à (@) mail.mcgill.ca. Un gros merci à François et AG pour avoir relu tous mes textes. Court of Sartorial Appeal- “style of cause” MacLeod CJ, Jay, Jacques-Terrence, Mwah JJ, presiding
Introductory Remarks by MacLeod CJ: Dedek’s colour sense incites particular MacLeod CJ. I must, however, share my We are tasked here with evaluating the admiration, as he wears difficult colours dissent concerning the negative charac- fashion sense and personal style of sev- (green) and colour-combinations (grey terisation of the Pratt knot. The Pratt eral male faculty members at the Royal pants, brown shoes) effortlessly. Only conveys a simple elegance lacking in Institute for the Advancement of Learn- one blemish exists in his otherwise flaw- more conventional knots such as the full ing (McGill University). As McGill is lo- less record: to wit, wayward ties. Dedek Windsor. The only instance where a cated in Montréal, the case follows uses the somewhat unconventional Pratt can be seen as inappropriate is in Québec sartorial procedure, which im- Pratt knot, skewing the face of his tie the case of a shirt with a collar that re- poses a higher burden of style upon off-centre. This skewness, when com- quires a wider knot. However, given the male subjects than would be applied in bined with his habit of pacing during contradictory evidence pertaining to the the rest of Canada. It is helpful at this lectures, results in fluttering ties which type of collar worn by the professor, I point to proceed on an individual basis, detract significantly from his professo- cannot condemn his tie-knot usage. recalling that this court has no jurisdic- rial gravitas. The tragedy is that this tion over natural persons – that is, we issue could be resolved by the simple Per Jacques-Terrence J (concurring): A- judge wardrobes, not their wearers. expedient of a tie clip. I find myself in agreement with both of my learned brethren with concerns to On re: Dedek Per Jay J (dissenting): A. As one of the as Professor Dedek’s style. With well- students who switched from Professor cut clothes, well-chosen colour combi- Per MacLeod CJ: A-. Professor Dedek’s Dedek’s class into the French section nations and tie choices that figuratively sartorial choices reflect timeless Euro- (as he had suggested), I have had rel- “tie” everything together, there is little pean style. His clothes are form-fitting atively little exposure to his style. From to critique in terms of general style. If but not tight, the colour combinations what I have observed outside class, anything there is much to be appreci- work well together, and he has shown a however, I am in generally in agree- ated. However when coming down to consistent willingness to innovate. ment with my learned colleague specifics I also find myself uncomfort- 12 MARCH 30TH 2010 able with the tie and shirt collar. Dedek, to a suit, having paired suits with turtle- this is a fatal flaw in the eyes of this it seems, enjoys wearing spread collar necks and always ensuring to match court - his suits are far too large and lit- shirts with narrow ties (colloquially pocket squares with ties and socks. Nor erally hang from his frame. This sarto- known as skinny ties). I must here dis- does he hesitate to introduce colour rial error is even more noticeable given agree with MacLeod CJ’s discussion of into his wardrobe through these pieces, the simplicity of Professor Provost’s ap- the Pratt knot which is in fact known for which can only - in this judge’s eyes - parel and requires the court to render its symmetry. This rules out the possi- be seen as a positive. There have been an unfavourable opinion. It is our hope bility of a causal relationship between some criticisms laid, however, in rela- that such a punitive letter grade will in- the skewed nature of the tie and tion to the pattern of some ties, which spire the esteemed professor to pur- Dedek’s choice of knot. In addition, I are overly reminiscent of the mid- chase more fitted pieces that display a find that a (slightly) skewed tie to be a 1980s. little more flair. natural part of any wardrobe, and hardly worthy of mention. Rather, I On re: Moyse would argue that the true issue is Dedek’s combination of the spread col- Per MacLeod CJ, Jay J concurring: B-. lar with the narrow tie. Because the Rarely does one find such a striking narrow tie complements the cut of the contrast between successful and un- suits chosen so well by Dedek, the of- successful elements in a single person’s fending article of clothing is the spread wardrobe. Professor Moyse wears styl- collar shirt. But for said unfortunate ish brown leather shoes, and his ties, choice of collar, Dedek would have lev- on those rare instances in which they elled at an A. are worn, are eye-catching but not gar- ish. The predictable reappearance of his Per Mwah J (dissenting): B+, Je ne puis favourite dress pants is offset by their partager l’opinion de mes estimés col- elusive hue, which has been variously lègues. Par habitude, Prof. Dedek dé- described as blue, grey or olive by ob- tonne dans un contexte nord-américain, servers. Yet this list of sartorial mais son style germano-européen n’in- strengths must inevitably come to an nove aucunement. En voyageant un end, and it is unfortunate that the coun- peu à l’extérieur de notre hémisphère, terpoint should be an article as impor- nous contstaterons qu’il ne fait que per- tant as Moyse’s shirts. These shirts are pétuer et répèter un style classique, well-chosen by colour or pattern, but pensez Polo Ralph Lauren. Sa note de are comically oversized. Given that B+ tient surtout du fait qu’il rajoute de Moyse devotes considerable effort to la couleur et de la vie à un groupe en maintaining an athletic physique, it is manque de créativité! De plus, son style unclear to the court why he should d’humour sec est bien apprécié par les choose to conceal it within swathes of étudiants qui ont le bonheur de suivre excess fabric. l’un de ses cours! Per Judge Mwah (concurring): B-. Je ne On re: Gélinas peux qu’être en total accord avec mon collègue MacLeod. Tous les paris sont Per Jay J, MacLeod CJ, Mwah and ouverts quant à son style du jour: néo- Jacques-Terrence JJ concurring: B+. je m’en foutiste ou philosophe-post- One of the most under-appreciated ele- moderne du café Cherrier, vous ne ments of the male wardrobe is the suit. connaissez pas? À découvrir. Many men are content with a single suit, varying only their shirts and ties. Prof Gélinas is not one of those men. He has worn a variety of suits, ranging On re: Provost in style from 2 to 4 buttons, and in Per MacLeod CJ and Jay J, Mwah and colour from traditional solids (black, Jacques-Terrence JJ concurring: C+. grey, navy) to more “casual” greens and The wardrobe before us is straightfor- browns. This diversity speaks of an ward. Professor Provost’s choice of openness to bold sartorial frontiers. colours is conservative and embraces Some criticism must be laid however on darker hues appropriate to a man of his the cut of suits, often a little too large in age and professional stature. Acces- the shoulders or in need of tailoring. sories are almost unknown to him, Additionally, he is a man who is unafraid apart from understated and well-main- to challenge the usual accompaniments tained dress shoes. Unfortunately - and 13 QUID NOVI
VOUSV O U S CCHERCHEZH E R C H E Z UNEU N E ALTERNATIVEA LT E R N AT I V E ?
NeN manquezq pasp notre «Vins«Vinns et fromagefromages»ges» sur les avavenuesvenues non traditionnellestraditioonnelles du droitd La pratiquepratiquue classique en cabinetcaabinet vous intéresseintéresse plus ou moinss ? VousVous aimeriezz trouver une pratique dud droit originale?? Nous aimerions vous inviter à uneunne soirée où vous aurez l’occasion de rencontrerrenconntrer trois juristes à la pratique différentediffférenteféérente et fascinante.nte.
DroitDrooit humanitairhumanitairee surs la scène interinternationalernationale Me Pascal ParadisParadis est le directeur général et secrétairee du Conseil d’administrationd’administration d’Avocatsd’AAvocatsvocatss sans frontières. Il futf également l’un desdes trois membres fondateursfonddateurs d’ASF et s’ests’esst rendu en mission à plusieurs reprises een Colombie, en HaïtiHaïti,i, au Guatemala, au NNigeria, au Pérou, au CChili et au Vénézuela. Diplômé de l’Univl’Universitéversité de Laval en 19199393 et de la London ScSchoolchool of Economics aand Political Sciencee en 1996,1996 Me ParadisParaddis a également une dizaine d’annéesd années d’expérienced’ed expériencee en pratiquepratiquue privée.privée Il viendraa nous entretenir surr l’importance de la protectionp des droits de l’Homme et des possibilités qui sontt offertesofffertesfertes aux juristejuristess à l’international.
Une carrièrecarrièrre d’avocat au seinseein du service extextérieurtérieur du Canadada Les avocatavocatsts qui joignent les ranrangsngs du service extérieextérieureur du Canada ont l’ol’occasionoccasion de travaillerr Me Jean-FrancoisJean-FJean FrancoisF au siège duu Ministère des affairesafffairesfaires étrangères et duu Commerce internationalinternattional à Ottawa maiss HébertHébeert aussi dans des missions canadicanadiennesiennes aux quatre coinscooins du monde à des intervalles régulierss de deux à quatreq ans. À Ottawa,Ottawaa, les avocats ont l’occasionl’ooccasion de travaillertravailler dans des domainess aussi divers que lee droit internationalinternaational économique et commercial, la paixpaaix et la sécurité internationales,inteernationales, la souverainetésouveeraineté des États, lee droit internationalinternaational de la personne,personnne, le droit pénal international,international, le droit de l’environnement et le droit de la mer.mer. À l’étranger,l’étranger, leslees agents du service extérieur sont affectésafffectésfectéés dans une ambassadeambassadde canadienne, dans un consulat ou à unee mission aupauprèsprèsp d’une organisationorganisatig ion internationale. MêmeM si ces postesp peuventp comprendrep du travail juridique,j q , le travail à l’étrangerl consiste lee plus souvent à promouvoirprommouvoir les intérêts politiques,p économiques,économiquues, commerciaux ett culturels dud Canada.
Le droitdroit des technologies de l’information,l unn domaine d’aved’avenirenir Me Dominique JaarJ est un expert desd technologies juridiquesjuriddiques et de l’administrationl’administration de la preuvee !!"#$%&'()*+#!"#$%&'()*+#,-"#$%&'()*+#,-.."-"-##/%-/%%--$$'(/#)""#&-'(/#)""#&-00+&)1)*+#-+&)1)*+#-$$2#3-2#3-44'(/#)"/-'(/#)"/-55#10)%-#10)%-..($.($,6-($,6-""7-7-//#+"#-#+"#-88&9#-&9#-$$777(71)#((#-(71)#((#-//:!$)7")/!#-:!$)7")/!##-- en droit des technotechnologiesologies de l’informatil’information.ion. Il est également le fondateur et l’orl’organisateurgaanisateur principal de LegalIT,LegalIT, la conférenceconférrence canadienne bijuridiquebijuuridique et bilingue sur les technologies juridiques. Diplômé de l’Université LavalLaaval et de la WesternWestern University en CommonCommmon Law,Law, ainsi que dee l’Université d’Aix- Marseilles III en droit international ett européen, Me Jaar a également pratiquépratiquué chez Bell Canadaa et chez Borden LadnerLadner Gervais. Me JaarJ viendra nous dévoilerdévoiler les secrets de son succès dans unn 1'97)(#-1#-1&')%-7+//)-('+;#7+-'<-"#/-1!8/-(#-97(*+#(%-:7/-#%-'<-"=7;#()&-#/%->-$)#"-'+;#&%?1'97)(#-1#-1&')%-7- - -7+//)-('+;#7+-'<-"#/------1!8/-(#-97(*+#(%-:7- - - 7/-#%-'<-"=7;#()&-#/%->------>-$)#"-'+;#&%?- -
InscriptionInscripttion en ligne GRATUITE*GRAATUITE* au www.abcqc.qc.cawwww.abcqc.qc.ca. Faites vite, less places sont limitées!limittées! Mardi le 6 avril, à 17h30, aux bureaux de l’ABC-QUÉBECl 500, Place dd’Armes, 19e étagétage,ge, Montréal (mét(métrotro Place d’Armed’Armes)es) Pour plus dd’informations : 5514.393.960014.393.9600 ou à [email protected]@abcqc.qc.caca Un évévénementvénement organorganiséisé par la sectionn des étudiants enn drdroitoit de l’ABCl’ABC-QUÉBEC.C-QUÉBEC. *Événement réservéréservvé aux étudiants desdes facultés de droitdroitt et de l’École du BarrBarreau.eau. 14 30 MARS 2010 !"#$%&' (In the Heat of the Sun): A Chinese Masterpiece by Fangzhou Bian (LAW II)
!"#$%&' (In the Heat of the Sun home. My father, who lived through the Cul- or Yang Guang Can Lan de Ri Zi) is one tural Revolution, would often reminisce of a few select movies that is of deep Most of his days are spent out with his about those days as a time of absolute personal significance to me and that I gang of male friends. He is a lanky freedom and liberty. He would tell me hold dear to my heart like a beloved young boy hitting puberty and slowly how intellectuals such as teachers, who family heirloom. It is in my honest discovering human sexuality. There is a were the target of persecution, would opinion, one of the masterpieces of comical scene where Xiao Jun plays often be bullied by students right in the world cinema. Having recently re- around with what looks like a balloon middle of class very much like a hilari- watched it, I was surprised by how from his father’s drawer only to find out ous scene in the movie set in a class- fresh this film felt and how many sur- later that it was a condom. During the room. As most of the adults have gone prises it holds upon a second viewing. summer, he hangs out with his gang, a to work in the countryside and factories This was Chinese actor Jiang Wen’s (( group of people very much like the re- in Chairman Mao’s proletariat move- )) first movie as a director. He has so bellious youth from Rebel Without a ment, kids in those days didn’t even at- far made two more movies, all of which Cause. They get into fights with other tend school. My father would tell me are excellent, but none can compare to gangs when one of their own gets hurt stories about roaming around the city the sheer cinematic brilliance that is and they flirt with girls they see on the of Beijing, which was like a ghost town captured in!"#$%&'. !"#$ streets. The gang’s leader is a dashing due to the exodus of people to the %&'is Jiang Wen’s most personal film and handsome older boy named Liu Yi countryside, with friends very much like and also, his magnum opus. Ku who early on in the movie wants to the young boys depicted in the movie know a popular girl named Mi Lan. Xiao and get into fights with other local !"#$%&' is known in English as Jun, who is a talented keymaker, has a gangs. He told me some of the charac- “In the Heat of the Sun”. I don’t know favourite pastime which involves sneak- ters in the movie are based on real life, who made the translation but it ab- ing into the apartments of strangers namely Xiao Huai Dan, the old gang solutely fails to convey any of the po- while they are absent. He becomes fix- leader who settled the truce only to be etic meaning in the Chinese title. The ated with the apartment of one assassinated later on by other enemy title literally means “The Days when the stranger, a beautiful young girl whose gang members. Sun Shone Brightly.” Although the title portrait instantly captivates Xiao Jun. describes the setting of the movie, tak- He prowls the rooftops like a silent Jiang Wen skilfully and ingeniously por- ing place during one summer in the life guardian waiting for this girl and one fi- trays this bygone era in !"#$%& of the main character, the more subtle nally meets her one day in the streets. ' while simultaneously telling a bril- meaning conveys a sense of nostalgia, The girl is the famous Mi Lan, who is liant coming-of-age story that is univer- of warmth, and of longing for a bygone older and much more mature than the sal in its appeal. The main characters era that exists only in scenes of mem- innocent Xiao Jun. The two develop are so well developed and reflective of ory. It sounds like the finishing words what at best can be called a brother-sis- genuine emotions that anyone who has of an autobiography where the author ter relationship but as with any boy ever been young can identify with is remembering the long gone days of smitten by a girl, friendship alone does them. This film is one of the most hon- his youth. not suffice. Xiao Jun later introduces Mi est and powerful portrayals of the ado- Lan to his friends and tries to win her lescent experience I have ever seen and !"#$%&' is the coming-of-age heart only to ultimately lose her affec- a powerful meditation on memory and story of the young Ma Xiao Jun (played tions to the handsome and mature Liu time. Yi Ku. by the extremely talented Xia Yu aka * +) and his gang of friends as they deal Jiang Wen brilliantly uses an orange-red ! " # $ % & ' with the slings and arrows of young is unique in that it color palette to exude a feeling of takes no political stand on the Cultural adulthood including parents, male com- warmth and youthful vivacity. The lush Revolution, instead choosing to focus rades and that most mysterious of crea- music of the Sicillian Opera, Cavelleria on the everyday experiences of young tures to young teenage boys: the Rusticana (which appeared in the open- kids during the Revolution and their teenage girl. It is set in Beijing against ing scene of Raging Bull) is used to coming-of-age within this historical con- the turmoil of the Cultural Revolution. great effect here, evoking the reveries text. It is a fond remembrance of those Ma Xiao Jun’s father is a People’s Liber- of Ma Xiao Jun. The movie is ingen- days of the Cultural Revolution where ation Army soldier and is always away iously shot with soft focus lenses to young kids roamed free without to occupy his military post in a distant convey images of significance springing parental supervision around the city of province. He lives with his mother but right out of one’s memory. The scener- Beijing. the film has very few scenes of him at ies in memory are often diluted and un- clear, eaten away as one forgets 15 QUID NOVI
through age. It is often hard to see im- sire? Xiao Jun tells us that his initial ages from memory in sharp focus and meetings with Mi Lan were pure bliss as It is a shame that!"#$%&'is not there are details that we cannot see he would often go to her apartment, widely known in the West. Although much like how the radiant light of the dance with her and watch her lie down championed by the famous American summer sun can often blind our per- on the bed. Indeed, we often remem- director Quentin Tarantino, this movie ception. Indeed, a major theme of the ber things not as they were, but as has never found distribution rights in movie is the unreliability of memory. what we want to think they were. As North America and remains unseen. It The narrator in the movie, voiced by the older Xiao Jun tells us through nar- is a cinematic masterpiece and together Jiang Wen himself as the adult version ration, his meeting of Mi Lan might with its director, Jiang Wen, deserves of Ma Xiao Jun, often finds that he is never have been as enchanting as he the same kind of honor and apprecia- contradicting himself, speaking of remembers. It is interesting to note tion given to the works of Zhang Yimou, events that might never have hap- that Xiao Jun, and the audience, are Ang Lee, Chen Kaige and Wong Kar- pened. first introduced to Mi Lan not by a facial Wai. The film version I saw has badly encounter but through her feet. There deteriorated and in serious need of a There is an amazing scene where Ma are many shots of Mi Lan’s feet later on restoration. I hope that one day a fig- Xiao Jun sneaks into the house of the in the movie. What is Jiang Wen sug- ure like Martin Scorsese, known for his girl he has a crush on, and notices a gesting here? Is it a suggestion of foot work on film preservation and the portrait of her in a swimming suit be- fetish like in Quentin Tarantino’s championing of his Italian heritage by hind white veil. His observance of the movies? I think it’s an image of perfec- using his name to distribute Italian portrait slowly dissolves into a closeup tion that is firmly ingrained in Xiao Jun’s movies, would come and save this pre- shot of another girl named Hu Pei Pei memory such that whenever he thinks cious gem of a film that so wonderfully who hangs out with Xiao Jun’s gang. In of Mi Lan, he thinks of her feet. In captures the essence of the adolescent a later scene, the portrait disappears. other words, the feet symbolize the experience. !"#$%&' is not only When Xiao Jun asks Mi Lan where the ideal that is Mi Lan. a masterpiece of Chinese cinema, but portrait had gone, she staunchly denies also one of the greatest works of art, ever possessing one. Did the portrait There is a great scene where Xiao Jun period. ever exist or was it simply the product first introduces Mi Lan to his friend, the of Xiao Jun’s daydreams? In fact the gang leader Liu Yi Ku. He tries to woo unreliable narrator even later says that and impress her, pretending to be a Bol- maybe Mi Lan and Hu Pei Pei might be shevik soldier and boasting that he can the same person. The movie smartly climb all the way to the top of a coal never answers those questions. tower. He plays around with his friend only to see Mi Lan laughing and being It is said that the “first loves of adoles- touched by Liu Yi Ku. Immediately his cence are so powerful because they are attention is shifted to Mi Lan and Liu Yi not based on romance but on ideals.” Ku. Notice Xia Yu’s, who plays Ma Xiao Boys and girls fall in love because they Jun, subtle facial tensions as he looks think the other person is perfect. In on, jealousy and regret boiling under- fact Xiao Jun often acts out scenes from neath the surface. It is brilliant and old Soviet movies pretending to be an subtle acting. Any boy who has ever idealistic Bolshevik warrior as a pastime stood by and watched a girl that one and also to impress Mi Lan. Mi Lan to deeply likes laughing and being ca- Xiao Jun is an object of Pygmalion fas- ressed by another boy can instantly cination. It is fair to ask whether Xiao identify with Xiao Jun’s rage and de- Jun really knows Mi Lan, or does she spair. The reaction is human and Xia simply represent an ideal that com- Yu’s performance captures that reaction mands his fascination and sexual de- impeccably.
The Legal Methodolgy Program invites applications for TL -ships for next year - the deadline for submitting is April 9. The application should consist of a cover letter, a CV and a transcript.
For more information - visit the SAO website or contact Me. Lamed
16 MARCH 30RD 2010 Year-End Report from your Third Year Class Presidents: Héloïse Apestéguy-Reux & Natai Shelsen
It’s very hard to believe that the des nachos. Ce semestre, nous avons dans la faculté, dans le cadre de cette school year is almost over and with it, tenu une assemblée de classe le lundi semaine!). our third year of law school. Our third 29 mars à Thomson House, suivie d’un year! How did the time go by so fast? petit lunch entre étudiants de We’ve also, of course, been serving Mais bon, the point of this article is troisième année. actively on LSA council all year, as well not to contemplate the speed of the as taking part in the organization of passage of time but rather for us, as La semaine du 18 janvier, nous avons the upcoming GRAD BALL on May 2nd your third year class presidents, to – avec les autres présidents de class, (which will be amazing – beautiful present to you our year-end report. le HRWG et l’AÉD – organisé la se- venue and delicious food, tickets are maine de levée de fonds pour Haïti. on sale now!!). Finally, we’ve also Pendant le premier semestre, nous On a aussi participé un peu à l’organi- made sure to stay in touch with third avons fait une soirée « mercredi à sation et la promotion de la semaine years on exchange by publishing mini- Thomson House ». À peu près 25 Carnaval du 15 février (malheureuse- interviews with them in the Quid – be personnes sont passées pour causer ment, une de vos présidentes a été sure to check out the next two Quids avec leurs camarades de troisième bien déçue de ne pas avoir de partici- to hear from those on exchange this année et manger un bout de pizza et pants pour sa partie de cache-cache semester!
Continued from p.2 tackle the next set of objectives. Some- “It is character building. You have Rejection is a setback but it is not the times you do not realize how badly you two choices—lie down and envelop end. Some of us are simply not sup- want something until it is taken away yourself in self-pity, or accept it, posed to realize our dreams the first from you. However, when you do finally mourn it and pick yourself up, be- time around. But imagine the over- come to that realization, you fight that coming more determined than whelming feeling of accomplishment much harder, infused with the certainty ever.” when that dream is indeed realized. So that your calling is within reach. much sweeter. So much more wonder- Rejection makes you stronger. Like a ful and well deserved when it actually Cheers to you, Rejection. I may not like wrinkle, indicative of life’s temporal happens. Sometimes the best alterna- you today but I promise to look back on journey, rejection remains with you. It tive to instant gratification is the de- you, ten years from now, and know that may not be visible to the outside ob- layed receipt of an arduous journey. I needed you. I am who I am because server, but rejection marks your being; you provided me with an opportunity it provides you with the ammunition to “Recognize that it blows, but rede- for introspection; I am now instilled move ever forwards. It is the answer to fine it as an opportunity for even with the desire to figure out why you the question of “how did you get to greater success.” happened and what you mean. where you are?” and it is a punctuation mark in life’s run-on sentence. Rejection is a catalyst for personal eval- uation. A negative response provides us “It stings at first. But it also gives you a with the chance to hone in on our chance to think about where you are weaknesses and refine them, making going and what you really want to do.” them sharper and more potent as we
Interested in Competitive Mooting?
Competitive Moot Try-outs will take place on Thursday, April 8th and Friday, April 9th. A sign up sheet will be posted out- side of Matteo's as of Monday, March 30th. The excerpts to be pleaded (one in English and one in French, au choix) will be posted on the SAO website along with the instructions and the application form. Everyone is welcome to try out, but please note that preference in selection is given to students going into third or fourth year.
The same problem will be pleaded "live", at Bar Prize Moot on Wednesday, April 7, the day before try-outs at 17h30 in the Moot Court. Competitive mooters from this year will be vying for prizes from the Bars of Montreal and Quebec - so come and see how they do it and get some ideas for your presentation!! 17 QUID NOVI
DROIT À L’IMAGE Charlie Feldman (LAW II) MARYLAND - All that and line for some quality time with his read ‘f**k Duke; f**k Osama’ (without snout! A recent entry on ‘Overheard in *s). It about sums up the hatred. That a bag of chips! College Park’ (way better than ‘disons’) said, I do not support the riots we is a young lady quoted as saying: “The have after games with Duke (whether Last week I sported my ‘Maryland Terps’ condom broke and all I could think we win or lose) but, it is true that I have sweatshirt twice. Both times, numerous to do was run to the turtle for luck!” pants ruined by pepper spray. students asked me ‘What’s a Terp?’ When Dean Jutras asked the question, Besides the turtles on campus, there’s Speaking of sports for a second, UMCP it was the last straw! I thought ‘It’s time a statue of KERMIT THE FROG!! Jim has four colors – red and white (our to take decisive action to educate the Henson (creator of the Muppets) went athletic colors) and black and gold (our NCDH masses!’ and, well, my decisive to UMCP. academic colors). When the new ath- action of choice is to write something in letic center opened on campus, there the Quid. So, here we go: Things you was a contest to name the student sec- should know (or, well, that I want you tion. The winning choice: The Red to know) about the University of Mary- Army. As a result, I have a shirt that land – College Park, my alma mater. says ‘I want you to join the Red Army’. Several weeks later, university officials First, our mascot is Testudo, a dia- realized the problem with this name and mondback terrapin (turtle). That’s why we’re now ‘Testudo’s Troops’. Whoops. we’re the Terps. Lots of things on cam- pus have a turtle connection – be it our You may have noticed many references student newspaper ‘The Diamondback’ to shirts throughout this article. I don’t or the campus plaza in the shape of a know why, but it feels as though we turtle. Our sports teams tell you to ‘Fear made or received shirts for everything. the Turtle’ – our cheerleaders tell you to We also have a huge fountain (more And, as I glance down, I notice I’m ‘Cheer the Turtle’ – the music school like a reflecting pool but we call it a wearing a ‘College Park Scholars’ shirt has a banner reading ‘Hear the Turtle’ fountain) on campus; I was once peed at the moment – I have way too many. and, well, the guys on my floor had a on by a toddler in that fountain; true I do want to give a shout-out here to drinking team called ‘Beer the Turtle’ re- story. what I think was the best shirt plete with matching shirts. I’ve ever seen on campus…. Another true story is that every year, We have several Testudos around cam- one of the pro-life clubs (there are sev- When the cops break up a frat party, pus, the main one is in front of the li- eral) plants tons of little pink and blue they’re generally nice about it. Usually brary, and, well, it’s tradition to rub his flags on the main campus mall, each there are some alcohol citations (note: nose for good luck. During exams, peo- representing an aborted child. In true drinking age is 21) and warnings and ple leave him offerings, usually cup- Maryland fashion, there are always a whatnot. Well, it just so happened that cakes from the dining hall. group of frat brothers who think these the cops broke up a pretty large frat flags are PERFECT for flag football. party hosted by one of the African American frats, and arrested two of the We joke that we have a club for every- organizers. To raise money for their thing. It makes sense when you have legal fees (if I remember correctly, the 37,000 students (according to charges were all dropped eventually) Wikipedia). In contrast to the pro-life the frat made shirts reading ‘Everyone clubs, we have several pro-choice ones, wants to be black’ on the front… and on and, uhh, a club called ‘Male Feminists the back: ‘… until the cops come!’ Ex- of Maryland’. They went to the big pro- cellent shirts, in my view. choice rally in DC (UMCP is 8 miles as the crow flies from the Capitol Building) wearing shirts that said ‘My penis is not a gavel’. It’s slightly odd to see that shirt on campus if you have no idea what’s up. That said, I prefer those shirts to some of the ones people sport on cam- You really do get used to rubbing his pus saying disparaging things about nose – normally, students give him a Duke – our rival. While the ‘f**k duke’ passing pat as they rush to class, but, shirt (with *s) is popular, I think my fa- on rare occasions, there can be a little vorite was a garment circa 2003 that 18 30 MARS 2010
DROIT À L’IMAGE Charlie Feldman (LAW II) A close runner-up shirt would be those the fun here, I’m just going to provide sported by several students after the you a list of some state… ‘things’, that, … yeah, that’s all I have to share here, FBI ranked us as one of the most vio- when read together should provide a other than to tell you that Maryland is a lent campuses in the nation (around pretty good idea of what it’s like: study in contrasts. We’re a blue state, 2006). In trying to find this information but 20/23 counties are red. We’re south now, it seems as though we were actu- Statehood: April 28,1788 (7th State) of the Mason Dixon line but we fought ally number two and not number one. I Population: 5.3 million for the north during the Civil War. We guess the campus media had it wrong % White / % Black: 63/29 (2008 Cen- sentence people to death but have a because some students sported shirts sus) moratorium on the death penalty. And, that reading ‘#1 in violent crime… at State Song: "Maryland! My Maryland !" we boast about being home to the first least we’re #1 in something!!’ (1939) – to the tune of ‘Oh President. No, not George Washington. Christmas Tree’ The one before – John Hanson. I wish I Sadly, not on ANY shirt is our school’s State Bird: Baltimore Oriole were kidding – we learn early on in official motto: “Fatti maschii, parole State Tree: White Oak school that the credit really belongs to femine” – manly deeds, womanly State Flower: Black-Eyed Susan Hanson, a Marylander. We’re proud of words. No, I’m not kidding – check State Boat: Skipjack our Marylanders and will boast their ac- Wikipedia. It also happens to be our of- State Crustacean: Maryland Blue Crab complishments and achievements to ficial state motto. I’m also not kidding. State Dog: Chesapeake Bay Retriever anyone who will listen. That said, we State Sport: Jousting also disown some of our own, and, in Maryland itself could be the topic of State Folk Dance: Square Dance that regard, please do not mention several more articles. Rather than spoil State Dessert: Smith Island Cake Spiro Agnew in my presence. Thanks!
Photos Clock-wise:
1) Smoked meat on the floor! Oh noes!
2) DeanJutras during the Dean’s Town Hall.
3) Prof. Jukier with JICP stu- dents at the Courthouse for an exciting trip to Motions Court!
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DROIT À L’IMAGE Charlie Feldman (LAW II)
I was going to write funny captions, but then I realized that it was Nutrition Week at the Faculty. I love that we observed this (knowingly or unknowingly) with a new beer and cookies. The beer got mixed reviews from those surveyed (I didn’t try it). But, I can tell you that the cookies were amazing, so don’t stop, Prof. Klein!! PS: 3/4 Profs agree that the beer was better than grading papers or writing exams! ...DISONS... also be puzzlement… Prof. Klinck: I identify heavily with Calvin (of Calvin and Well, there wasn’t droit a l’im- Prof. Klein: I would be a terrible Hobbes) age last week for space reasons witness.. I think about that all (we wanted to save paper) and, the time in this class. Prof. Leckey: This is fun. For we thought I had my name on those of you who think this is enough pages of the Quid as it Prof. Klinck: Can you imagine a fun… was. Some of you were… sur- 16 year old kid with an iPod and prisingly upset with me for this the statute of uses on the first Prof. Klinck: IF YOU SAY ‘failure’ so, uhh, I apologize? day of law school? VESTED AND ‘CONTINGENT’ OR And, uhh, here we go! VESTED AND ‘EXECUTORY’ ON Prof. Adams: "You wouldn't just YOUR EXAM –YOU WILL TAKE Prof. Klein: I don’t … make go up to the Mona Lisa and say SEVEN DAYS OFF OF MY things up … per se ... 'I don't like how she's smirking', LIFE!!!! and touch up her smile..." Prof. Klinck: We care about Prof. Klinck: When I grade property interests, not romantic Prof. Klinck: Have you ever these exams my wife will hear interests in common law prop- heard of a guy called Julius screams of erty Cesar? pain coming from me *flailing arms* ‘MY GOD THESE STU- Prof. Klinck: Roll with the Prof. Adams: "So, this was a DENTS – WHAT AM I DOING punches – that’s me House of Lords case... no, actu- WITH MY LIFEEE’ *class is silent* ally, Court of Appeal. In any Prof. Klinck: Sir Thomas Moore case, wigs were in play..." Prof. Sklar: In the future, our bi- says silence is assent… it could ographies will be very short be-
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DROIT À L’IMAGE Charlie Feldman (LAW II) cause there will be so many plaintiff and what services did Prof. [Redacted]: “We’re doing deleted e-mails. They're gone. she promise to render? well today… first I’ve never seen Forever. People save letters. E- 1L: She was a singer. a shaft and now we’re talking mails, you click, and it’s gone. Class: [laughter] about stripping” Prof. Dedek: [Pause] Seriously? Prof. Saumier: There’s no dis- (Quid’s note: Bette Davis Eyes (Thanks to all my spies, and suasion in Quebec because the is one of my favorite songs…) if you sent something that drivers are insured. There’s no I’ve left out, please re-send incentive to drive better. Per- Me Lamed: Don't lock your it – [email protected] haps this in part is why there’s knees [while pleading], that's - I know I’m missing some this … perception … about how people student overheards….) Quebec drivers. pass out. Remember that episode of Glee club? 3L: I think I’m just too polite Prof. Klinck: Corporations - un- Canadian to be a dominatrix. I’d like human beings - do not have Prof. Moyse: "C’est excitant be like ‘whack!’ sorry! Sorry! souls. They are not capable of la procédure! Je sais pas ce SORRY!! love, but they are capable of que j’ai aujourd’hui, mais je greed! m’excite tout seul" 3L: That was the most NASTY yeast infection. Swear to G-D it Prof. Klein: If I were a law stu- Me Lamed: [lectures us about felt like dent, I would not say a word to saying 'like'] I had my own Tim Hortons the cops – and, if I did, I would [talks about other stuff] going on. preface every statement with ‘I Me Lamed: ... and then they (Quid’s note: Eww. Just eww. feel as if my will is being over- were like 'zing!' But I had to print it). borne’ 1L: Can we pace while moot- 2L: (On dating engineers): No Prof. Sklar: Sometimes the ing? good can come from an iron judge doesn’t vote the way the Lamed: No, pacing is not part of ring President the exercise. Head up to the would want.. it’s like that song gym afterwards, but stand your 2L: What’s course-aux-stages? *sings* YOU CAN’T ALWAYS ground during the moot. (No, he didn’t know… two GET WHAT YOU weeks ago) WANNNNNNT. Wait. Who sang (It seems MANY of you were in that? Michael.. J.. Mick... THE a recent lecture about a case in- 2L: It’s physically impossible for ROLLINGSTONES! volving a shaft. Apparently, him to be up before 1pm, and, we’re five and the word ‘shaft’ well, it’s 12:30 and he’s not Me Lamed: "Ladies and gentle- makes us giggle, so, here are a here – to nobody’s surprise men"... that has a ring to it... few selections): you can almost hear Cicero Prof. [Redacted]: "I don't even 1L: FROWNDATIONS IS DONE. coming down the pipe. know what a shaft looks like!" I CAN LIVE AGAIN!!! Prof. [Redacted]: “Why would- Prof. [Redacted]: Vous avez n't the shaft come?" 3L: They should really call it the droit de moquez mon accent. Prof. [Redacted]: “When the ‘Sexy Affairs Office’ Mais pas autant que ça. mill gives the shaft to the trans- porter - who are we looking at?" Prof. Dedek: In Bette Davis v Warner Brothers, who was the (The next class) 21 QUID NOVI
DROIT À L’IMAGE Charlie Feldman (LAW II) 1L: Two more years of this? UGHHHHHHHHHHHH. 1L: There’s a reason one of the 3L: BRING ON THE MINI- WiFi’s in the building is named ‘I EGGS!!!!! 2L: UGH! I hate going on dates can hear you having sex’ with white supremacists – it 2L: Some days it feels like sucks that 1L: "He wears those green my blood alcohol level is I find shaved heads attractive! pants so well." higher than my GPA 1L: "I wish I was Irish." 2L: I fell asleep with my Civil 1L: "I wish I was those pants." Code and drooled all over it. Quid Online Fans - we’ll be My Cousin Binnie No Cory for Old Men back this week with a new Lame and Lamer Cool Hand Locke episode, so fear not! In the L'Heureux Gilmore Million Dollar Dubé mean time, Katie Webber Ben Heureux-Dube Dial M for McLachlin had a FABULOUS idea that LeBel and the Beast Binnie and Clyde many of you probably saw LeBel et la Bête For Whom the Abella Tolls on Facebook. Here in a Locke, Stock and Two Smoking The Hunchback of Notre-Dain abridged form we present Barrels Lamerican Beauty Katie’s idea: Supreme Court Pearl Arbour One Hour Fauteux Justices v. Movie Titles! Deschamps des rêves Frost Dickson (Submissions by various The Thomas Cromwell Affair The Agony and the Estey students): Tora! Tora! Bora! Saving Private Brian (Dickson) Ritchie Rich Terminator 2: Judgement Dubé Gonthier with the Wind Thelma and Louise Charron To Kill a McLachlin Bird La Forest Gump Fun with Dickson and Jane Inglorious Basteraches The Little Lamermaid There's something about Marie
TWOQUIDSLEFTTHISSEMESTER!!
Submission Deadlines:
Thursday, April 1st for publication April 6th
Thursday, April 8th for publication April 13th
Submissions must be received by 5pm on the due date.
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