See also TRANSLATIONS

An interpreter must be shown to be qualified to translate and must take an oath that he or she will make an accurate translation.{footnote} [2382]  FRE 604.{/footnote}  A interpreter may be disqualified on the grounds of bias.{footnote}Check 6 ALR4th 158.{/footnote}

Criminal Cases

A criminal accused who is shown not to adequately understand spoken English must be provided with an interpreter.{footnote}36 ALR3d 276.{/footnote}  The right to an interpreter may be waived where no objection is made, however.{footnote}United States v. Martinez, 616 F.2d 185 (5th Cir. 1980); Luna v. Black, 772 F.2d 448 (8th Cir. 1985)(failure to request interpreter). {/footnote}

The interpreter must translate everything of significance spoken in the courtroom, and may not merely summarize what is said.{footnote}United States v. Diaz Berrios, 441 F.2d 1125 (2d Cir. 1971).{/footnote}  However the manner in which an interpreter is used in the proceedings has been held a matter for the trial court’s discretion.{footnote}United States v. Lim, 794 F.2d 469 (9th Cir. 1986).{/footnote} 

Bibliography

Beth G. Lindie, Note, Inadequate Interpreting Services in Courts and the Rules of Admissibility of Testimony on Extrajudicial Interpretations, 48 U. Miami L. Rev. 399 (1993).