Court Interpreting

Language Interpreting in the Courts

Language interpreters play an essential role in the administration of justice. The Hawai'i state courts use interpreters when a party or witness in a court case has limited-English proficiency or is unable to hear, understand, speak or use English sufficiently to effectively participate in court proceedings. Interpreters help such persons have equal access to justice and help court proceedings function efficiently and effectively.

The New Court Interpreter Certification Program

The Hawai'i State Judiciary's Court Interpreter Certification Program is designed to promote and ensure equal access for limited-English proficient, deaf, and hard-of-hearing defendants and witnesses by providing the best qualified interpreters available. The program also aims to expand and improve the Judiciary's pool of qualified interpreters by establishing a minimum standard for court interpreter certification and coordinating the screening, training, and testing necessary to assist interpreters in meeting and surpassing this standard.

Office on Equality and Access to the Courts

The Judiciary's Office on Equality and Access to the Courts is responsible for developing, implementing and administering statewide programs and policies relating to access to the courts for linguistic minorities. The office recruits, registers, educates, and tests interpreters.

Contact Us

For more information regarding language interpreting in the courts, contact:

Office on Equality and Access to the Courts
Hawai'i State Judiciary
426 Queen Street, Room B17
Honolulu, HI 96813-2914
Phone: (808) 539-4860
Facsimile: (808) 539-4203
E-mail: OEAC@courts.hawaii.gov