Role of the Interpreter

 The job of the interpreter is to ensure that you can hear and understand everything that is said in your hearing. Also, that everything you say is heard and understood by the judge and the others in your case. The interpreter will interpret everything that is said without adding or leaving anything out. The interpreter will not be able to explain anything to you; they are not a lawyer. The interpreter is a neutral person and is only allowed to assist with the communication between you and the court. If you have any questions about what is said, or if there is anything that you do not understand, you may ask the judge or others in the case, through the interpreter to get an explanation.

When an interpreter is used, they will either be:

• Seated next to you
• Wear a headset and speak to you through that
• In another area of the courthouse, but communicating to you via a headset
• Over a video conference
• Over the telephone