30-Day Deadline to Contest a Ticket in Quebec

In briefIn Quebec, you have 30 days after the statement of offence is served to file your plea (section 160 of the Code of Penal Procedure). If you do not respond, a default guilty judgment can be entered, with additional fees.

Where does the 30-day deadline come from?

Section 160 of the Code of Penal Procedure requires the defendant to file a guilty or not-guilty plea within 30 days of service of the ticket.

The deadline runs from when the ticket is served on you, not from the date of the offence.

What happens if I miss the deadline?

If you do not respond, the prosecutor can seek a default judgment: you are found guilty, the fine and fees are added, and the demerit points are recorded.

Can I still act after a default judgment?

Yes, in some cases, through a motion to set aside the judgment (form SJ-721), generally within 15 days of learning of it. You must show valid grounds.

How do I plead not guilty?

You file your not-guilty plea using the response form attached to the ticket, according to the relevant municipal court's process (online, by mail or at the counter). A hearing notice is then sent to you.