A trial consists of the evidence stage, followed by oral argument, in which parties make their addresses to the court.

During the evidence stage, the party on which the burden of proof lies examines its witnesses first; the other party then submits its evidence, after which the first party may submit evidence in rebuttal. The court may allow the examination of other witnesses.

After evidence is closed, the party on which the burden of proof lies presents its arguments first, followed by the other party. The first party may reply and, if the reply raises any new point of law, the other party may answer. No other address to the court may be made without leave of the court. Trials are heard before one judge of the Court of Quebec or the Superior Court. There are no jury trials in Quebec's civil courts.

Appeals are heard by the Quebec Court of Appeal sitting in Quebec or in Montreal.