Interpreters and the Legal System

Competent interpreters are essential if a legal system is to serve the needs of a multicultural, multi-lingual society. Competent lawyers need to understand the issues of culture and language and how to work effectively with interpreters. This book contains law, critique and a case study of the way in which legal culture is grappling with multiculturalism in Australia and New Zealand. It takes a contemporary approach to language and law, starting from the premise that culture, language and law are inexorably linked. Contains detailed discussion of crucial topics such as: the legal 'right' to an interpreter interpreters in criminal investigations, courts and tribunals the role of interpreters and their strategic importance interpreter accountability and ethics.