Julien Chouinard, Canadian lawyer and jurist (b. 1929)

Julien Chouinard: A Distinguished Career in Canadian Law and Public Service

Julien Chouinard (February 4, 1929 – February 6, 1987) was a prominent Canadian legal professional, a dedicated civil servant, and ultimately, a highly respected Puisne Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada. His distinguished career, marked by significant contributions across the legal, academic, and public administration sectors, cemented his legacy as an influential figure in Canadian jurisprudence.

Early Life and Formative Education

Born in Quebec City, Quebec, Julien Chouinard was the son of Joseph Julien Chouinard and Berthe Cloutier. His academic journey began with remarkable success. He pursued his higher education at Université Laval, a prestigious institution in Quebec known for its strong legal programs. Chouinard earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in 1948, demonstrating his broad intellectual capabilities, and subsequently obtained a Bachelor of Laws (LL.L.) in 1951. The LL.L. degree, a foundational qualification in Canada's civil law system prevalent in Quebec, equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of legal principles.

His exceptional academic prowess was further recognized when he was awarded the highly coveted Rhodes Scholarship. This prestigious international scholarship, established in 1902, is awarded to outstanding students worldwide based on their academic achievement, character, leadership, and commitment to public service. As a Rhodes Scholar, Chouinard continued his studies at Oxford University in England, where he earned a second Bachelor of Arts (BA) in 1953. This period of study abroad undoubtedly broadened his perspective and enriched his legal and intellectual foundation.

Legal Practice and Academic Contributions

Upon his return to Canada, Julien Chouinard was called to the Quebec Bar in 1953, marking the official commencement of his legal career. This significant step allowed him to begin practicing law within Quebec's unique civil law jurisdiction. Concurrent with his burgeoning legal practice, he shared his expertise and passion for law by teaching at his alma mater, Université Laval. His commitment to legal education grew over time, as he transitioned from an auxiliary professor in 1959 to a mid-time professor by 1964, shaping the minds of future legal professionals. During his time in private practice, he was a member of the notable Quebec City law firm Gagné, Prévost, Flynn, where he honed his practical legal skills before transitioning into public service.

Distinguished Public Service Career

Julien Chouinard's career trajectory shifted significantly towards public service in 1965 when he joined the Quebec civil service. His initial appointment as Deputy Minister of Justice for Quebec underscored his legal acumen and administrative capabilities. In this crucial role, he served as the senior non-political official within the Ministry of Justice, responsible for advising the Minister and managing the department's operations, thereby playing a pivotal part in the province's legal administration. His rise continued, and in 1968, he was appointed Secretary General of the Executive Council of Quebec. This influential position placed him at the heart of the provincial government, where he served as the most senior civil servant, coordinating government policy and ensuring the smooth functioning of cabinet operations.

In a brief foray into electoral politics, Chouinard sought to serve the public through a different avenue. He ran as the Progressive Conservative candidate for the federal riding of Matane in Quebec during the 1968 federal election. Although his bid for a seat in the House of Commons of Canada was ultimately unsuccessful, this endeavor highlighted his dedication to public life and his willingness to contribute at the federal level. For his extensive and exemplary contributions to public service, Julien Chouinard was recognized with one of Canada's highest civilian honors: he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1974. This prestigious award acknowledged his outstanding achievements and dedication to the well-being of the nation.

Judicial Appointments and Legacy on the Supreme Court

Julien Chouinard's distinguished career culminated in his appointment to Canada's highest courts. In 1974, he was appointed to the Court of Appeal of Quebec, the highest judicial tribunal in the province, where he played a critical role in reviewing lower court decisions and establishing legal precedents within Quebec's civil law system. His exceptional legal intellect and experience on the appellate bench caught the attention of federal authorities. In 1979, Prime Minister Joe Clark appointed him as a Puisne Justice to the Supreme Court of Canada. This appointment is one of the most prestigious in the Canadian legal system, making him one of the nine judges responsible for interpreting Canadian law, including the Constitution, and serving as the final court of appeal for all civil, criminal, and constitutional matters across the country.

Justice Chouinard served on the Supreme Court with distinction until his untimely death from brain cancer in 1987. His tenure on the highest court, though cut short, was marked by his thoughtful contributions to Canadian jurisprudence. He is interred in the Cimetière Notre-Dame-de-Belmont, a testament to his profound impact on the legal and public life of Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions About Julien Chouinard

Who was Julien Chouinard?
Julien Chouinard was a distinguished Canadian lawyer, civil servant, and ultimately a Puisne Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, known for his significant contributions to Canadian law and public administration from the 1950s to the 1980s.
What was Julien Chouinard's educational background?
He earned a BA (1948) and an LL.L. (1951) from Université Laval in Quebec. He was also a Rhodes Scholar, which led him to obtain another BA from Oxford University in 1953.
What is a Rhodes Scholar?
A Rhodes Scholar is an individual awarded the Rhodes Scholarship, a highly prestigious international postgraduate award for students to study at the University of Oxford. It recognizes academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to public service.
What were Julien Chouinard's key roles in public service?
He served as the Deputy Minister of Justice for Quebec (1965-1968) and then as the Secretary General of the Executive Council of Quebec (1968-1974), holding highly influential administrative positions within the provincial government.
When was Julien Chouinard appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada?
He was appointed as a Puisne Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada in 1979 by Prime Minister Joe Clark, serving until his death in 1987.
What is the significance of being an Officer of the Order of Canada?
Being appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada is one of the highest civilian honors in Canada, recognizing individuals for their outstanding achievement, dedication to the community, and service to the nation.