Reciprocal Judgments

The Judgments (Reciprocal Enforcement) (Guernsey) Law, 1957 provides for the registration in Guernsey of judgments obtained in a superior court of a foreign jurisdiction that in turn provides reciprocal treatment to judgments made in Guernsey Courts. The scope of this Law is limited to a small number of jurisdictions such as the United Kingdom, Jersey, The Isle of Man, The Netherlands, Italy and Israel. For information regarding a county's status in regard to this law please refer to an advocate.

Which judgment's cannot be registered in Guernsey?

Not all judgments from reciprocating jurisdictions can be registered in Guernsey Courts. Some examples of judgments which cannot be registered include:

 Matrimonial cases against a person;
 Administration of deceased's estate;
 Insolvency;
 Winding up of companies;
 Guardianship of infants.

For a more detailed list of judgments which cannot be registered in Guernsey please refer to an advocate.

What do I need to do?

In order for a judgment from a foreign court to be registered in the Guernsey Courts, you will need to file an application, with supporting documentation (enclosing a copy of the Judgment which you are seeking to register) and submit it to the Greffe either in person at the Royal Court counter or by post, along with payment of the relevant fees. Two complete sets of the paperwork are required and must be filed by 4.00pm on the Wednesday preceding the Court date.

To assist, and for your guidance, a sample application is attached with the forms, which can be downloaded under the Forms link in the left hand column or can be obtained from the Greffe. An explanation of the fees is also enclosed within this pack and this form must be completed and returned at the time of submitting the application.

Reciprocal Judgment applications are heard before the Friday Ordinary Courts which begin at 9.30 am on each working Friday of the year. When submitting an application, please indicate which date you would like to have the application heard on.

Should you require legal advice please refer to an advocate.

Copies of the forms can be downloaded under the Forms link in the left hand column or can be obtained from the Greffe.