Cellphone Tickets / Distracted Driving

Quebec’s rules on distracted driving are strict. Using a handheld phone or portable electronic device while driving can lead to significant fines, demerit points, and added consequences for repeat offences. Our lawyers review your statement of offence, explain what the allegation means, and represent clients who want to contest a cellphone ticket.

*General information only, not legal advice.*

Distracted Driving and Handheld Device Tickets

Cellphone tickets often involve how the device was handled and what was observed. Under Quebec rules, simply holding a portable electronic device can be enough to trigger an offence, even without active calling or texting. We review the statement of offence and any available disclosure, then explain the typical process for contesting a ticket and what issues are commonly examined in distracted driving files.

*General information only, not legal advice.*

Protect Your Driving Record Today

Protect Your Driving Record Today

Potential Consequences

A distracted driving conviction may include a substantial fine plus demerit points. Penalties can increase for repeat offences and may include immediate licence suspension in certain situations. Because consequences can depend on the allegation and your record, it helps to confirm exactly what offence is listed on your ticket before deciding how to respond.

*General information only, not legal advice.*

Handheld Cellphone Use

The rules apply to more than phones. Portable electronic devices with a screen can be prohibited while driving, depending on how they are used or held.

Demerit Points and Repeat Offences

Distracted driving tickets can carry demerit points, and repeat offences can trigger stronger measures such as immediate licence suspension.

Portable Electronic Devices

The rules apply to more than phones. Portable electronic devices with a screen can be prohibited while driving, depending on how they are used or held.

Evidence and Disclosure

These cases often turn on the details recorded in the file, including observations, notes, and the wording of the offence. A review helps clarify what is actually alleged and what may matter procedurally.

Our process

We keep the process clear and structured. After reviewing your ticket and the key facts, we explain the usual steps for contesting a statement of offence and what to expect as the file moves forward.

*General information only, not legal advice.*

1

Step 1 (REVIEW)

We review the statement of offence and confirm what is alleged, including whether it is framed as cellphone use, portable electronic device use, or another distracted driving allegation.

2

Step 2 (DEFEND)

We assess the evidence and outline practical defence paths. Where appropriate, we request disclosure and evaluate the issues that may affect proof and procedure.

3

Step 3 (RESOLVE)

We guide the file through the normal process toward a resolution, keeping you informed about timelines, communications, and what the outcome may mean for your driving record.