I cannot attend my hearing at the tal what should i do?
Short answer
In Quebec, you must notify the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL, Quebec's rental board) as early as possible and explain the reason for your absence. A person may also be represented in the cases allowed by law.
In detail
An absence without notice can lead to the case being heard without you, on the other party's evidence alone. So it is important to contact the tribunal as soon as you know you cannot attend, and to keep proof that you did.
The tribunal assesses the reasons given. A supporting document, such as a medical note or proof of a work obligation, is helpful.
After a decision has been rendered in your absence, there are steps you can take, in particular an application for retraction, which has its own fees and time limits.
What to document
The date and time of the hearing, the date you notified the tribunal, the method you used, and the document justifying why you could not attend. Also note the name of the person you spoke to.
Put your facts in writing, free. Writing your version down early, keeping your documents dated and preparing your questions for a lawyer: the tool is there to document, never to advise.
Open the application Up to 3 files, no card · see the plans
Official sources
- Tribunal administratif du logement — Frequently asked questions
- TAL — How to file an application
- TAL — Fees payable
Related questions
- Can i refuse a rent increase?
- How long do i have to reply to a notice of rent increase?
- When must my landlord send me the notice of rent increase?
- If i refuse the rent increase do i have to move out?
- How do i know if a rent increase is too high?
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What this page is not
This is general legal information about the law of Quebec and Canada, dated and sourced. It is not legal advice, not a strategy, and not a prediction about the outcome of a case. In Quebec, only lawyers and notaries may give legal advice (Act respecting the Barreau du Québec, ss. 128 and 133). Laws and amounts change: the official source always prevails over us.