In keeping with its mission of protecting the public, the Association also defends the rights and freedoms of citizens by critiquing legislation before it becomes law. Two centuries of ethical deliberation have left their mark. The Barreau has invested great effort in improving public knowledge of the law through the production of television series, publishing documents designed to inform citizens of their rights and responsibilities and establishing a web site for the general public. The Barreau also set up a legal aid system of free services for the underprivileged which led to the creation of today's Legal Aid in Quebec. The Annual General Meeting hears the various reports and sets annual dues.
Leadership is ensured by a president and a vice president elected by universal suffrage.
The latter delegate daily management to a 10-member Executive Committee. The Barreau's decisions are also based on the recommendations of various committees. Implementation is the responsibility of executive management, the administration, and the departments.