How Do I Obtain a Copy of the Court Judgment?

How Do I Obtain a Copy of the Court Judgment?

You can obtain a copy of a court judgment in the UAE by applying through the relevant court system (online or in person), provided you are a party to the case or have a legally recognized interest. The process usually involves submitting identification, case details, and paying a nominal fee. If complications arise, authorized legal representatives can obtain certified copies on your behalf.

Understanding What a Court Judgment Copy Is

A court judgment copy is an official record of the court’s final decision in a legal matter. It sets out the facts of the case, legal reasoning, and the outcome, including any orders for payment, performance, penalties, or enforcement measures. This document is often required for enforcement actions, appeals, compliance with regulatory authorities, banking matters, or even immigration and employment purposes.

In the UAE, court judgments are issued by different judicial bodies depending on the nature of the dispute. These may include civil courts, criminal courts, labor courts, family courts, rental dispute centers, or free zone courts such as DIFC or ADGM. While the purpose of a judgment copy remains the same, the method of obtaining it can vary slightly between jurisdictions.

Who Is Entitled to Request a Judgment Copy?

Not everyone can freely access court judgments. Typically, the following parties are entitled to request a copy:

• Plaintiffs or defendants named in the case
• Legal representatives acting under a valid power of attorney
• Government authorities or regulatory bodies with lawful interest
• Heirs or successors, where legally recognized
• Authorized company representatives in corporate disputes

If you are not a direct party to the case, you may still obtain a copy if you can demonstrate a legitimate legal interest. Courts assess such requests carefully to protect confidentiality and data privacy.

Types of Judgment Copies You Can Request

Before applying, it helps to understand which type of copy you need:

• Ordinary copy: Used for reference or internal records
• Certified copy: Officially stamped and often required for enforcement, appeals, or submission to other authorities
• Electronic copy: Issued via court portals and usually carries digital authentication

In most enforcement or cross-border matters, a certified copy is recommended.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Court Judgment Copy

Identify the Correct Court

First, confirm which court issued the judgment. This could be a local emirate court, a federal court, or a specialized tribunal. Using the wrong court portal or office may delay your request.

Gather Required Information

You will typically need the following details:

• Case number
• Year of filing
• Names of the parties
• Type of case (civil, criminal, labor, etc.)
• Emirates ID or passport copy

If applying through a representative, a valid power of attorney is essential.

Submit the Application

Applications can be submitted through:

• Official court websites or smart portals
• Court service centers
• Authorized typing centers
• Through a legal representative

Online portals are increasingly preferred, as they allow tracking and faster processing.

Pay the Applicable Fees

Fees are generally modest but vary depending on whether you request a certified copy, number of pages, or urgent processing. Payments are usually made electronically or at court counters.

Collect or Download the Judgment

Once approved, the judgment copy can be:

• Downloaded electronically
• Collected from the court
• Sent to your registered email or representative

Processing times range from same-day issuance to several working days, depending on the court and complexity.

Special Considerations for Criminal Judgments

Criminal court judgments are more sensitive. Access is typically limited to:

• The accused
• The complainant
• Legal representatives
• Authorized government entities

Additional scrutiny applies, and some judgments may only be issued after appeal periods expire.

Obtaining Judgments from Execution Courts

If a case has moved to enforcement or execution, you may need a judgment copy specifically marked for execution. These copies often include execution seals or annotations confirming that the judgment is final and enforceable.

This is particularly important when dealing with asset seizure, travel bans, salary attachment, or bank account freezing.

Online vs. In-Person Requests

Online requests offer convenience, speed, and digital records. However, technical errors, missing case details, or portal restrictions can sometimes cause delays.

In-person requests may be preferable when:

• Case records are old
• Names were entered incorrectly
• Multiple related cases exist
• Urgent clarification is required

Choosing the right method depends on the complexity of your case.

Common Challenges and How to Avoid Them

• Incorrect case details: Double-check case numbers and party names
• Expired or invalid authorization: Ensure powers of attorney are valid and properly attested
• Requesting the wrong type of copy: Confirm whether a certified copy is required
• Pending appeals: Some judgments are not released until appeal periods conclude

Careful preparation can save time and prevent repeat visits or rejections.

Can Someone Else Obtain the Judgment on My Behalf?

Yes, judgment copies can be obtained through authorized representatives. This is common when the applicant resides outside the UAE or prefers professional handling. In such cases, courts require clear authorization and valid identification documents.

Many individuals rely on Lawyers in Dubai for this purpose, especially in complex disputes, older cases, or matters involving enforcement or appeals, as professionals understand court procedures and documentation requirements.

Language and Translation of Judgments

Most UAE court judgments are issued in Arabic. If the judgment is required for international use, banking, or foreign authorities, an official legal translation may be necessary. Courts do not typically issue judgments in other languages unless governed by specific free zone rules.

Translations must be completed by licensed legal translators and may require further attestation depending on use.

Judgments from Free Zone Courts

Judgments issued by DIFC or ADGM courts follow distinct procedures. These courts operate primarily in English and provide digital access to case documents. Requests are usually made through their respective online systems, and certified copies can be obtained electronically.

If enforcement is required outside the free zone, additional recognition steps may apply.

What If the Case Is Very Old?

Older cases may not be fully digitized. In such situations:

• Manual record searches may be required
• Additional processing time should be expected
• Supporting documents may help locate the file

Professional assistance is often helpful for retrieving archived judgments.

Using the Judgment Copy After Collection

Once obtained, the judgment copy can be used for:

• Enforcement proceedings
• Appeals or reconsideration
• Compliance with government authorities
• Banking and financial disclosures
• Settlement negotiations

Immigration or employment matters

Always ensure the copy matches the intended purpose to avoid rejection by third parties.

When Legal Support Becomes Important

While the process may seem straightforward, practical challenges often arise. Missing records, procedural objections, or jurisdictional issues can complicate matters. In such cases, Lawyers in Dubai can assist by verifying case status, ensuring the correct type of judgment is obtained, and handling communications with court departments efficiently.

Obtaining a copy of a court judgment in the UAE is a structured process designed to balance transparency with confidentiality. With accurate case details, proper authorization, and an understanding of court procedures, most requests are completed smoothly. However, when the matter involves urgency, enforcement, or cross-border use, careful handling becomes essential.