The Rules Committee of the Supreme Court has recently approved amendments to the Rules of the Supreme Court, 1986. These amendments were published in the Newfoundland and Labrador Gazette on August 22, 2025, and came into force on the same day.

SUMMARY OF AMENDMENTS

Rule 4.02 – Document Requirements
Rule 4.02(1)(d) has been amended to remove the requirement that original signatures be signed in blue ink. The amended rule requires that original signatures be signed in ink, without specifying colour. Rule 4.02 has also been amended to explicitly permit electronic signatures on a document prepared for use in a proceeding where that document has been sworn or affirmed through the use of audio-visual technology consistent with the requirements of the Commissioners for Oaths Act.

Rule 56.03(1) – Persons to Whom Grant May Be Made
Rule 56.03(1) has been amended to remove the restriction preventing people who are non-resident in the province from applying for a grant of administration. The amended rule indicates that a grant of administration must be made to a person resident within the province in preference to a person having equal right residing outside the province, unless a judge orders otherwise.

Revised Forms
The following forms were amended: F16A.04B; F16A.04C; F25.03A; F34.02A; and F35.03A. The amended Form F25.03A references the Short Notice Settlement Conference List available at the St. John’s Family Division judicial centre, and the other amendments provide typographical fixes or minor clarifications.

View the notice here.