ABSTRACT
Interpreters fulfill a variety of functions in the legal sphere: they assist law enforcement agencies in questioning witnesses and suspects, enable attorneys to communicate with their clients, interpret court proceedings for defendants and litigants, and interpret witness testimony for the court. The interpreter may be regarded as an arm of the law, part of the defense or prosecution “team,” an expert witness, or an impartial officer of the court. In this chapter we will examine the laws and regulations that govern court interpreting, legal definitions of what constitutes a competent interpreter, and credentialing requirements for court interpreters in various countries.
