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Private Complaint

A complaint to the Disciplinary Council can be initiated directly by a member of the public, who is referred to as a "private complainant."

A private complaint must be lodged via a letter to the secretary of the Disciplinary Council. The letter must summarize the nature (what), the time (when), and the location (where) of the alleged infraction. The complaint must be accompanied by an oath sworn and signed by the complainant before a commissioner of oaths (e.g. an attorney or a notary). The secretary of the Disciplinary Council will inform the psychologist accused, thereby beginning the disciplinary procedure.

The procedure for a private complaint is identical to that for a complaint lodged by the Syndic’s Office. However, in this case the private complainant must present his or her own evidence to the Disciplinary Council to demonstrate that the psychologist committed the offence complained of. Both the private complainant and the psychologist have the right to be represented by an attorney.

There are no fees for lodging a complaint. However, a private complainant may be required to pay certain costs if the psychologist is acquitted on all counts and the complaint is considered abusive, frivolous, or obviously ill-founded.

If you are considering lodging a private complaint, or for more information, contact the secretariat of the Disciplinary Committee at 514-738-1881, extension 222, or by e-mail at info@ordrepsy.qc.ca.

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