Answer to Question #4

In general, a Justice of the Peace should not administer any document that is entirely in a language other than English. What activity is cited as an exception to this rule?

1. Taking an affidavit that includes an accompanying translation. 
2. Taking a declaration if the beginning and end sections are in English. 
3. Certifying a copy of a document in another language. 
4. Witnessing a will written in another language.

Answer C – see 2.18.2 on page 19 of the Ministerial Manual

Rationale: The JP should not administer any document entirely in another language unless they are fluent, or it is accompanied by an independent translation. However, an exception exists when certifying a copy of a document in another language, because the JP can confirm the copy is identical to the original without needing to understand the words written.