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I Need an Interpreter for Court

This toolkit tells you how to ask for an interpreter if you do not speak enough English to understand what is happening at court. For general information about getting an interpreter, read the Articles. Read the Common Questions if you have a specific question. If you want to ask for an interpreter, or if your request for an interpreter was denied, use the Forms link to prepare your forms.

You'll find links to legal aid offices and lawyer referral services under Find A Lawyer. If there is a Self-Help Center in your area you can get more help there. If you need something other than legal help, look in Community Services. If you need a fee waiver, an interpreter, a court to accommodate your disability, or more information about going to court, visit Going to Court.

Common Questions

Who can get a court interpreter?

You might qualify for a court interpreter if:

  • You have limited English proficiency (LEP);

  • You are a witness, a party, or a person with a significant interest in a court case; and

  • The judge decides you need the interpreter to fully participate in the court activity.

You can request an interpreter or have someone request one for you. Even if you don’t request an interpreter, the judge may decide that it would help you to have an interpreter.

What does the court interpreter do?

A court interpreter interprets out loud between English and another language. Court interpreters also translate court papers.

The court interpreter's job is to give a complete and correct interpretation or translation. They should not change, leave out, or add anything to what is said or written. It is not the interpreter's job to explain what is being said. It is not the interpreter's job to give you legal advice.

What other kinds of language help can I get?

Each Michigan court has its own language access resources. The type of help you get depends on your needs and the resources available. For example, a court might have:

  • “I speak” cards at the court clerk’s office. These cards let you show the court staff what language you speak;

  • Remote interpretation telephone services;

  • Court staff who speak different languages;

  • Court forms and documents translated in different languages

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