Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. When should an interpreter be appointed?
- When your proficiency in a second language to communicate is at a very basic level. Participation in court proceedings require far more than very basic level communication capability. It is important to receive the same consideration as native speakers of English.
- 2. What information must I have ready before asking for an interpreter?
- Language requested, courthouse location, date of hearing, defendant name, case number (if available), appointed judge, magistrate, or hearing officer.
- 3. I have a court date and I do not speak English; can I have an interpreter?
- If your court date corresponds to a case within the list of proceedings covered, yes.
- 4. How much does the interpreter service cost?
- Court interpreter services are paid by the State for the list of proceedings required to be covered at no expense to the individual needing interpreter services.
- 5. I have to appear in court and I do not speak English, can a friend or family member interpret for me when I come to court?
- If your case is on the list of proceedings covered, no.
If your case is not on the list, you should ask the judge, magistrate, or hearing officer about it.
- 6. I am representing myself (pro se), can I have an interpreter?
- If your case is on the list of proceedings covered, yes. Otherwise, no.
- 7. If you have the interpreting services, why can’t you take my case?
- We serve the courts, not individuals.
- 8. If I have questions during the proceeding, can I ask the interpreter to explain?
- No. Those questions should be directed to the court or an attorney through the interpreter; the interpreter is not permitted to answer questions, only to interpret them.
- 9. When my case before the court concludes and I have to go to other court partner agencies, can the interpreter accompany me to interpret for me?
- No. The interpreter only provides interpreter services before the judge, magistrate or hearing officer on the bench at the time of the court proceeding.
- 10. Can you refer me to an interpreting service agency or individual?
- Check the Florida Courts web page: www.flcourts.gov, under the Court Interpreters section for certified, provisionally approved, or registered interpreters in your area. We do not provide information on interpreting agencies or individuals.