Julius Grey

Julius H. Grey, born on January 11, 1948, in Wrocław, Poland, is a distinguished Canadian lawyer and university professor renowned for his expertise in constitutional and human rights law. He serves as a senior partner at the law firm Grey Casgrain, s.e.n.c., where he has made significant contributions to the legal landscape in Canada.

Grey's academic journey began at McGill University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Civil Law degree in 1971, followed by a Master of Arts degree in 1973. Since becoming a member of the Quebec Bar and the Canadian Bar Association in 1974, he has been actively involved in various legal associations, including serving as president of the Canadian Foundation for Individual Rights from 1985 to 1988.

Throughout his career, Grey has been a vocal advocate for civil liberties. Notably, in 1982, he defended two Montreal writers against a hate campaign, resulting in a settlement and public apology from the newspaper involved. He also played a pivotal role in annulling a stipulation in the Charte de la langue française that restricted the use of multiple languages on business signboards, ensuring that French remains the predominant language while allowing for others.

In addition to his legal work, Grey has supported various cultural initiatives, including advocating for the French translation of Margaret Atwood's 'The Handmaid's Tale' during the 2004 Canada Reads broadcast. He has also defended the periodical La Presse Chinoise against a defamation lawsuit, with the courts ultimately ruling in favor of the publication.

Despite his federalist stance, Grey has shown support for the New Democratic Party and Québec Solidaire, even being rumored as a potential candidate for the party in Montreal. He is married to Lynne Casgrain, the ombudsman of the McGill University Health Centre and daughter of former Québec cabinet minister Claire Kirkland-Casgrain.