Martin Villa
Lawyer
With over 25 years of experience, Mr. Martin Villa has developed extensive expertise in construction law. He has represented contractors and real estate developers before all courts in Canada, including the Supreme Court of Canada and the Quebec Court of Appeal, in landmark cases involving the application of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Building Act.
Before joining Cain Lamarre, Mr. Villa worked for 23 years with the Association des professionnels de la construction et de l’habitation du Québec (APCHQ), where he served as senior lawyer, team leader, and director of labor relations litigation.
Recognized for his ability to explain complex legal issues in layman’s terms, Mr. Villa has written and published numerous articles for contractors and developers, in addition to providing training and actively participating in parliamentary committee hearings.
Attentive, Mr. Villa cultivates close relationships with his clients, particularly through the organization of conferences and targeted training sessions. He firmly believes that collaboration is the key to success and is fully committed to helping his clients exceed their goals.
An outdoor enthusiast, he enjoys hiking and cycling, and appreciates cinema and travel. He is also involved in social causes, particularly those that help sick children and combat homelessness.
Education
2002
- Master's degree in business law, Université Laval
1995
- Barreau du Québec
1994
- Bachelor's degree in law, Université Laval
Teaching, conferences and publications
2020 to 2025
- Preparation and development of training courses for contractors for the purposes of mandatory training recognized by the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (Quebec Building Authority)
- Preparation and delivery of training courses for APCHQ lawyers recognized for the purposes of the Quebec Bar Association in Quebec City and Montreal for the following areas of law: criminal construction law, constitutional law, occupational health and safety law, and labor relations
2002 to 2025
- Drafting of some 40 legal articles on the Québec-Habitation blog for contractors in the construction industry
2000
- Training provided to Crown prosecutors in consumer criminal law as part of a study day for prosecutors
Expertise
2
Construction Law
Construction law is based on strict contractual, administrative, and legal requirements. Our professionals support stakeholders in the sector—from planning to project completion—through diligent management and the efficient resolution of disputes and conflicts.
Labour and Employment Law
Cain Lamarre is one of the leading labour and employment law firms in Québec. Known for its pragmatic and strategic approach to labour relations, our team of legal professionals supports employers across the province in both the public and private sectors.