Definition
Daniel Therrien is a Canadian lawyer and former provincial politician who served as Attorney General and Minister of Justice of Quebec from 2002 to 2005.
Overview
Therrien entered public office in the early 2000s, being appointed Attorney General and Minister of Justice in the government of Premier Bernard Landry of the Parti Québécois. In these capacities he was responsible for overseeing Quebec’s legal affairs, public prosecutions, and the administration of justice. After leaving the cabinet in 2005, Therrien returned to private practice, joining the Montréal office of the international law firm Fasken Martineau (later known as Fasken) as a senior counsel specializing in constitutional and public law matters.
His career has combined experience in both governmental and private-sector legal contexts, and he has been involved in a number of high‑profile cases and policy initiatives concerning Quebec’s legal framework, including matters related to language legislation and civil liberties.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Daniel” is of Hebrew origin, meaning “God is my judge.” “Therrien” is a French‑Canadian surname derived from the Old French word terrien, meaning “earth‑dweller” or “farmer.” The combination reflects the common practice of French‑derived surnames in Québec’s population.
Characteristics
- Legal Expertise: Recognized for expertise in constitutional law, administrative law, and civil litigation.
- Political Role: Held a senior cabinet portfolio without being elected to the National Assembly; appointed as a minister, a practice permissible under Quebec’s parliamentary system.
- Professional Affiliation: Associated with major law firms in Montréal, notably Fasken Martineau, where he has provided counsel on complex governmental and regulatory matters.
- Public Service: As Attorney General, oversaw the Québec Prosecution Service and contributed to legislative reforms affecting the province’s justice system.
Related Topics
- Attorney General of Quebec
- Quebec Ministry of Justice
- Parti Québécois
- Quebec law and constitutional issues
- Canadian legal profession
Note: While the above information reflects publicly documented aspects of Daniel Therrien’s career, certain biographical details (e.g., specific dates of birth, educational institutions attended) are not comprehensively verified in readily available encyclopedic sources.