Courts and procedure
Court interpreter
A qualified interpreter who interprets court proceedings for someone who doesn't speak or understand English well, or who is deaf or hard of hearing.[1][2]
In more detail
California's courts say interpreters are provided free, should be requested in advance, must interpret everything that is said, and can't give legal advice.[1] In federal courts, the Court Interpreters Act has the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts certify interpreters where certification is merited.[2][3] Mediation programs make their own interpreter arrangements; ask before the session.
Varies by state
Each state's courts have their own interpreter programs and request steps. Find your state’s rules.
Related terms
- Self-help centerA court service that gives free legal information and help with forms to people who don't have a lawyer.
- Pro seRepresenting yourself in a court case without a lawyer.
- Clerk of courtThe court officer who manages the flow of cases and keeps the court's records.
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Sources
The official documents this definition is based on, with the date we last read each one. Definitions are in our own words.
General information, not legal advice. MediationList is not a law firm. Spotted an error? Tell us.
Cite this page
MediationList. (2026, October 28). Court interpreter: Definition. https://mediationlist.com/glossary/court-interpreter/
APA 7th ed. A retrieval date is included only for pages whose content changes, such as maps, data and tools.