Inter-American Service Convention and Additional Protocol (IACAP)
The Inter-American Convention on Letters Rogatory and its Additional Protocol (collectively known as IACAP) are multilateral treaties designed to facilitate judicial cooperation among member states in the Americas. Specifically, these agreements streamline the process of serving legal documents across borders in civil and commercial matters by providing a standardized method that is more efficient than traditional letters rogatory.
What Is the Inter-American Service Convention on Letters Rogatory and Additional Protocol?
The Convention (1975)
Adopted in 1975, the Convention establishes a formal framework for transmitting judicial documents (such as summonses, complaints, and subpoenas) from one country to another through Letters Rogatory. Furthermore, it outlines the legal mechanism for one court to request assistance from a foreign court in serving documents.
The Additional Protocol (1979)
The Protocol, signed in 1979, supplements the Convention by introducing specific procedures and standardized forms (Form A, B, and C) that streamline the service process. Whereas the Convention focuses on legal authority and jurisdiction, the Protocol emphasizes practical implementation. Moreover, it mandates direct communication between Central Authorities and provides official templates to be used for requests, service, and confirmation.
Participating Countries
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We prepare and review all required IACAP forms and letters rogatory to prevent costly delays or rejections.
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Step-by-step guide to treaty-based service
Inter-American Service Convention Process
Under the Inter-American Service Convention and Additional Protocol, the service of legal documents follows a structured, treaty-based process between participating countries. Here’s how it typically works:
Submit Request – Letter Rogatory (Form A)
A formal request for service is issued by the requesting country’s court. Next, this Letter Rogatory is sent to the receiving country’s Central Authority. Additionally, required documents often include translations and a summary in the recipient country’s official language.Serve Documents – Notification to Addressee (Form B)
The receiving Central Authority serves the legal documents to the recipient. In addition, Form B accompanies the papers, explaining the nature of the documents and any legal obligations.Receive Proof – Certificate of Execution (Form C)
After service is completed, the receiving authority returns Form C to the originating court. Specifically, this form certifies the method, date, and outcome of the service.
Overall, this system ensures legal cooperation between nations and helps protect due process rights while avoiding the complexities of informal or unauthorized international delivery methods.
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Whether you’re a law firm litigating an international case or a private party trying to serve legal documents abroad, you need a reliable expert in Inter-American Convention service of process. Let Stellar Konsulting handle the paperwork, compliance, and logistics so you can focus on your case.
We’re here to ensure your documents are served properly, on time, and in full compliance with the Inter-American Service Convention and Additional Protocol.
