Experienced legal sign language interpreters have shared this sample script with BSL legal. They have found it to be an effective way of explaining to the court why an out-of-court interpreter is needed when proceedings interpreters are already available.
“In simple terms, I have been instructed by the court as a proceedings interpreter. While I want to be as helpful as possible, I must be seen to be following the guidelines handed down to me by both my professional association and the Ministry of Justice.
May I direct your attention to the note on my booking confirmation, which states [read].
You can find other information that may be helpful to you by visiting the BSL Legal website and clicking on the FAQ section.
Link: https://bsllegal.org/whats-service-do-i-need/
- What are the benefits of counsel having their own interpreter in court
- Why can’t we use the proceedings/court interpreter for our consultations outside of the court
- Who pays for the interpreter”