2. Ask for bilingual proceedings
Question & Answer
Can I have my family law trial in French?You must ask for bilingual proceedings. To ask for bilingual proceedings, you can:
- your first document in French, for example, your Application or Answer
- file a requisition form with the court
- file a written statement with the court that explains you speak French and are asking for bilingual proceedings
- ask the judge or justice of the peace for a bilingual proceeding at any court appearance
Contact your local family courthouse for more information and help.
Deadline to ask for bilingual proceedings
There are deadlines to ask for a bilingual proceeding.
| Your role | Court | Deadline to ask for bilingual proceedings |
| Applicant | All courts | When you start the application |
| Defendant | Superior Court |
|
Service
If you filed a form or written statement to ask for bilingual proceedings, you need to serve that document on all in your case. You can the document by mail, courier, email, or in person.
There are rules you must follow for how to serve documents. And different rules apply based on how you serve the document, the type of proceeding, and the type of court. If you need help figuring out how to serve documents, you can contact your local family court.
