During his 33 year career as a police officer in Montreal, François worked for 21 years with young delinquents and youths in difficulty and as criminal investigator and homicide detective. He also worked closely with Youth & Family centers and community organizations involved with youths.  He completed a B.A. in Political Science at Concordia University and 2 years of law at McGill University. He also served as member and president of the board of directors of Verdun Hospital. From 1987 to 2008 he was a member of the Commission des droits de la jeunesse and the Commission des droits de la personne et des droits de la jeunesse.