When would F32.1 be used?
After a hearing, one party may be responsible for preparing the written form of an order that records what the court actually decided. Some orders require the other party's written approval of the draft wording; Rule 15-1 explains when this is required and exceptions. Form F32.1 is used with the draft order when approval is required.
F32.1 is not the hearing notice, the order itself or a request to change the judge's ruling. See Forms F51/F52 for order forms and the existing general order guide.
The 14-day approval or objection period
Rule 15-1(3.2) requires a party or their lawyer served with the draft order and signing instructions to respond within 14 days after service: either sign and return the order to approve it, or send a written objection explaining in detail why the wording does not accurately reflect the decision.
The objection is to inaccurate terms in the draft, not a substitute for appealing or reconsidering the decision. Compare disputed wording with the judge's oral reasons, clerk's notes, endorsement or any directions available from the registry.
What if the other party does not respond?
Under Rule 15-1(3.3), written approval is no longer required from a party who does not return an approved draft or detailed written objection within the period. Rule 15-1(3.4) sets requirements before the registrar may enter an unapproved order, including proof of service, proof of non-response and a requisition in Form F17.
Silence does not itself mean the order has been signed or entered; the remaining rule and registry steps still matter. A registrar may also question an order whose wording doesn't match the court's record.
Checklist for the person drafting the order
- Obtain accurate notes of the decision and identify which order form applies.
- Draft only the relief actually ordered, using precise names, amounts and dates.
- Check whether Rule 15-1 requires written approval or an exception applies.
- If approval is required, serve the draft order with current Form F32.1.
- Keep proof of service and diary the 14-day response period.
- Address on-time written objections before seeking entry; if there is no on-time response, follow Rule 15-1(3.4) and the registrar's requirements.
- Check the entered order carefully, and serve it as required.
Why accurate wording matters
BC Supreme Court Practice Direction 26 explains that proposed orders after chambers are checked against the clerk's notes; if there is a discrepancy, the registrar may require judicial approval. The court also publishes a family-law order picklist to promote consistent language, but the picklist does not replace the decision actually made.
Common mistakes: inserting relief that was never granted, overlooking a time limit for objecting, using a form for the wrong kind of order, or treating an unsigned draft as enforceable. When the wording is disputed, getting advice early may avoid further procedural problems.
Related guides
Important: This page is general legal information, not legal advice. Court rules, practice directions, fees and forms can change. Court orders, exceptions and the circumstances of your own case can change the procedure.