California courts provide interpreters in a wide range of languages, and in many proceedings there is no charge. The practical problem is scheduling: request late and you may face a continuance, which in some matters costs months.
This explains how to make the request, how far ahead, and what to do if the language you need is rarely covered.
What is inside
- How and when to request an interpreter
- Which proceedings carry a right to one
- Lead times, and what happens if none is available on the day
- Certified versus registered interpreters, and why it matters
- Why family members should not interpret for you
- Requesting written translations of documents
How to use it
Request as early as you have a date
Lead time is the whole game here.
Say the specific language and dialect
“Chinese” is not a scheduling instruction. Cantonese and Mandarin are different bookings.
Confirm the week before
Bookings do fall through, and knowing early gives you options.
Common questions
Can my adult child interpret for me?
Strongly inadvisable and often not permitted. Family members paraphrase, soften and omit — usually without realising — and in legal proceedings the precise wording is the point.
Is there a charge?
In many proceedings there is no charge to the party. Coverage varies by case type, which is set out in the sheet.