Ad Hoc Court Interpreters in the United States: Equality, Inequality, Quality?

Abstract

The role of court interpreters in the US is discussed. It is noted that such services, although required in cases initiated by the US government, are often poor or nonexistent at the state & local levels, due to lack of organization, trained interpreters, & funds, powerlessness of those groups affected, & insensitivity on the part of the courts. The courts have frequently failed to take the need for interpreters seriously. As a result of the lack of trained interpreters, ad hoc interpreters are often pressed into service. These may include friends or relatives of a defendant, court personnel, paid or unpaid volunteers, & even defense attorneys. The importance of proper training for court interpreters is stressed, & a program of training is outlined. 45 References. B. Annesser Murray