Official Translation Request for Court Judgments

Understanding the "Request for the Translation of a Judgment" Form (SJ-1138A)

The Request for the Translation of a Judgment (form SJ-1138A) is an official document issued by the Ministry of Justice of Canada. It serves as a formal request to translate a court judgment into either French or English, facilitating the accessibility of legal decisions across linguistic boundaries within Canada. This form is essential for individuals or legal representatives who need official translations of court judgments filed in provincial or territorial court records, particularly when such judgments are in a language different from the one required for legal proceedings, documentation, or official use.

Who Should Use This Form?

This form is primarily intended for:

• Individuals involved in civil or family law cases who require an official translation of a court judgment.
• Legal professionals, such as lawyers or legal assistants, requesting translations on behalf of their clients.
• Courts or government agencies needing certified translations for administrative purposes.

It is important to note that the form is applicable only for judgments filed in court records, whether in civil, family, or other legal matters. The request must be made prior to the translation process, which is provided free of charge by the Ministry of Justice, although additional copies may incur costs.

How to Complete the Form

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Download and fill out the form: The form is available as a dynamic PDF on the official website of the Ministry of Justice (www.justice.gouv.qc.ca). You can complete it directly on your computer or by hand if printed.
2. Provide identification details: Include your full name, contact information (telephone and fax numbers), and specify whether you are the plaintiff, defendant, or legal representative.
3. Specify the judgment details: Clearly indicate the court case number, judgment registration number, and the date of the judgment. Specify whether you are requesting translation from French to English or vice versa.
4. Number of copies: State how many certified copies of the translated judgment you require.
5. Delivery details: Provide the address where the translated judgment should be sent or indicate if you will retrieve it directly from the courthouse.
6. Additional comments: Use the comments section for any specific instructions or additional information.
7. Sign and date: The form must be signed and dated to validate the request.

Important Tips for Completing the Form

• Ensure all sections are filled out legibly, either typed or written clearly in block letters.
• Double-check the judgment details to avoid delays caused by incorrect case or registration numbers.
• Attach any necessary supporting documents, such as legal aid mandates or exemption requests, if applicable.

Submitting the Form and Payment Procedures

Where and How to Submit

Once completed, you must submit the form to the clerk of the court where the judgment was filed. Submission options include:

• In person: Present the form at the courthouse, along with acceptable payment methods such as cash, credit/debit card, certified cheque, or postal/bank money order made payable to the Minister of Finance.
• By mail: Send the completed form along with payment via credit card authorization, certified cheque, or money order to the court’s mailing address.

Paying Court Costs

The translation service itself is provided free of charge. However, if you request multiple copies or additional services, you may need to pay applicable court costs. Payment can be made through:

• Cash, credit or debit card, certified cheque, postal or bank money order (payable to the Minister of Finance) in person.
• Credit card authorization form, certified cheque, or money order by mail.

Common Errors to Avoid

To ensure a smooth process, watch out for:

• Incorrect judgment details — double-check the case number, judgment date, and registration number.
• Illegible handwriting or incomplete information, which can delay processing.
• Failure to attach required supporting documents or payment authorization.

Additional Notes

There are no legal costs associated with the translation of a judgment itself. However, additional copies or specific requests may incur fees. For the most current information on costs, procedures, and courthouses in Québec, consult the official website of the Ministry of Justice (www.justice.gouv.qc.ca).

Using the correct form and following these guidelines will help ensure your request for a court judgment translation is processed efficiently and accurately.