For Spanish and Creole requests, in-person or via audio/visual conference platform (zoom), requests must be submitted in advance of the scheduled hearing (see below time frames)
All other language interpreters’ requests must be submitted in advance of the scheduled hearing:
- 10 (ten) business days if in-person, and
- 5 (five) business days if the request is for audio/visual conference platform (zoom).
If you are involved with court case proceedings in the
Felony, Misdemeanor, Unified Children’s Court, Domestic Violence or Traffic court you may ask the presiding judge or judicial officer (i.e., magistrate, hearing officer) at the time of the hearing for interpreter services. If an interpreter is not available at that time, your case may be continued by the Court until an interpreter can be assigned.
Civil or small claims case proceedings, you may ask the presiding judge at the time of the hearing for interpreter services. If an interpreter is not available, your case may be continued by the Court until an interpreter can be assigned.
Due to limitations in interpreter resources, there is no guarantee that an interpreter will be available. Under certain circumstances, you may wish to request that the presiding judge allow a friend, relative, or acquaintance to interpret for you at the hearing. To reduce court case delays and where applicable, parties are encouraged to hire their own interpreter from an agency.