For SRLs, access to a transcript of their hearing is frequently critical to their effective participation in the justice system. We hear regularly from SRLs who feel that without a transcript, it is simply impossible for them to know what to do next, or how to weigh their options. But the process to obtain transcripts varies widely across the country, often proving difficult, confusing, and costly. NSRLP RAs Kaila Scarrow and Becky Robinet set out to answer some basic questions about access to court transcripts in each province and territory, and this report, “Is Access to Court Transcripts in Canada an A2J Issue?” reflects their findings, and presents our recommendations for improving access to transcripts.

2 thoughts on “Is Access to Court Transcripts an Access to Justice Issue?

  1. Diane Skelly says:

    Around 2012 I was able to purchase my transcript from a Supreme Court in B.C. I believe there was a time limit in applying for this. I found it hard to read the way it was typed and felt it was not all together accurate with a few important words recorded wrong.
    I was not able to get an audio copy of the trial which I wanted in order to show the very negative tone of voice from the judge. The judge was investigated after sending a long letter and copy of the transcript to the Judicial Council in Ottawa, but no wrong doing was found.

  2. Paul Taylor says:

    Hi,
    I think you have raised yet another extremely relevant factor of access to justice for many SRLs. Even though your focus is and has been solely on family law, it should be noted the issue of the need for transcripts is very true in all aspects of administrative, civil and other law.

    I have literally lost many appeals as a SRL simplify because I could not afford a transcript. The even more concerning part is that the decision making body you are appealing to is very unsympathetic to your cause of lack of resources and funds when they can not see your point on properly formatted piece of paper.

    It would be nice to see a national subsidy program to help SRLs which such things as transcripts and other fees based requirements to get access to justice.

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