Meet our Board of Directors: Patrick A. Molinari, Ad. E., FRSC
Committed to promoting sound administration of justice since 1974, CIAJ prides itself on supporting the legal community at all levels. CIAJ would like to warmly thank its board members for sharing their skills and working to improve the justice system with heart and wisdom for the benefit of society as a whole. CIAJ’s actions and programs would not be possible without the dedication of these outstanding professionals.
NOTE: Patrick A. Molinari stepped down from the Board of Directors in 2021.
What does CIAJ mean to you?
I have been involved with CIAJ for over 20 years because I strongly believe in its mission and values, and I think it is an important player in moving our justice system forward. I have served with CIAJ in various capacities and was a member of its Board of Directors from 2013 to 2021. I would simply say that every annual conference I have attended has been a landmark event due to its quality and relevance.
Why is it important for you to be active and involved outside your job?
On the one hand, I consider it a duty to share the experience and expertise that the society has allowed me to acquire and on the other hand, I consider it a privilege to be able to do so with people who share common values.
What do you like the most about your job?
In my current role as a counsel, most certainly, the opportunity to work with younger colleagues and observe the huge pool of up-and-coming talent.
Is there a cause you feel strongly about?
Professionally and scientifically, CIAJ, of course. On the social level, support for the homeless or people who have been scarred by life.
Do you think that justice evolves with society? Faster/slower?
Justice is an inherent component of society. It therefore evolves at the pace of society.
What was the last social or legal issue that made a strong impression on you?
Medical assistance in dying.
Are you active on social media? If so, how? Do you think they promote access to justice for all?
I am not active on social media, and I am not at all convinced that it promotes access to justice even though it can contribute to a better understanding of the issues.
What is the greatest challenge you have faced along the way?
Cultivating doubt.
When you chose to study law, were you thinking of pursuing a career as a lawyer?
That was the initial goal, but I chose an academic career, followed by a career as a lawyer.
What else would you have liked to do if you had not become a lawyer?
I did what I liked to do and I still do what I like to do.
What do you do in your free time, do you have a hobby?
I play piano but I am not as devoted as I would like to be.
Is there a message you would like to pass on to the new generation of jurists/lawyers? If you could talk to yourself when you were 20 years old what would you say?
Enjoy the moment and be willing to embark on unexpected paths.
About Patrick A. Molinari, Ad. E., FRSC
CIAJ Board of Directors Former President (member from 2013 to 2021)
Counsel with Lavery Lawyers
Patrick A. Molinari is counsel with the firm and brings to his health law and regulatory law practice the experience of an exceptional career in academia. A professor at Université de Montréal’s Faculty of law from 1977 to 2010, he headed the Centre de recherche en droit public (Public law research centre); he was assistant dean and then dean of the law faculty, then vice-president (administration and finance) of the university. In 2011, he was named professor emeritus in recognition of his many contributions to the university. He is co-author of the primary reference work on Québec health law and has published nearly eighty books and articles in the fields of health care and fundamental rights. Founding president of the Société de médecine et de droit du Québec, Mr. Molinari chaired the board of the Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal from 2004 to 2012. He is also a member of many Québec, Canadian, and international organizations and committees in the fields of health care, medical practice, and public health. From 2001 to 2013, he was advisor to the Canadian Institute for the Administration of Justice, then was a member of the Board of Directors from 2013 to 2021, and is also the past president of that organization.
About the author
CIAJ
Since its inception in 1974, the Canadian Institute for the Administration of Justice (CIAJ) brings together individuals and institutions involved in the administration of justice and promotes excellence through knowledge, learning and the exchange of ideas. CIAJ offers customized training and multidisciplinary programs designed for all stakeholders in the justice system, prepares reports and issues recommendations that could lay the groundwork for change.