The Quebec Bar “regrets” the publication on Instagram of a video by one of Marc-André Grenon's lawyers, which includes the hashtags #exposure and #htgawm (How to Get Away with Murder).
Posted at 4:16 p.m.
“The Quebec Bar Association wishes to inform the population that at no time does it promote among its members any behavior such as that reported in the media or seen on social networks,” the professional code responded on Tuesday.
On Saturday, La Presse columnist Patrick Lagacé reported on a video posted on the Instagram account of Marc-André Grenon's lawyer Me Vanessa Pharand during his client's trial. The latter was then charged with first-degree murder and aggravated sexual assault and has since been found guilty on both counts.
The video showed the lawyer, accompanied by her colleague Me Karine Poliquin, walking through the corridors of the Chicoutimi courthouse to the sound of the song “Gangsta's Paradise”, the lyrics of which are clearly reminiscent of death threats.
The publication, which has since been unavailable, was also accompanied by several hashtags, including #exposure and #htgawm (How to Get Away with Murder).
The Bar Association on Tuesday reiterated its recommendations to its members regarding the use of social networks “in accordance with their professional duties”. The professional code also reminds us that the professional code of lawyers provides that they must act “ with honor, dignity, integrity, respect, moderation and courtesy.”
However, it is not made clear whether Me Vanessa Pharand has deviated from the code and whether the Law Society's in-house committee, which is responsible for assessing whether one of its members has committed a crime, has opened an investigation against the lawyer.