7.2 Common Misconceptions

Admittedly, there is a bit of getting used to in working through an interpreter. However, some attorneys have misconceptions regarding the role and involvement of interpreters in the cases in which they interpret; these often prevent attorneys and LEP clients from using interpreters’ services to the fullest extent possible. More particularly, and anecdotally, attorneys, and sometimes LEP clients, worry about sharing documents with interpreters or otherwise involving them appropriately in conversations with LEP clients prior to events such as depositions and trial. 

Generally, this worry arises from fear of breaching confidentiality and, sometimes, from failure to understand the impartial nature of interpretation. This is particularly so when it comes to allowing interpreters to speak with LEP clients; for some attorneys, it may trigger concerns about interpreter bias or creating a conflict of interest. However, distrust of qualified interpreters for these reasons is not justified in light of their training and requirement that they comply with a code of ethics that addresses these issues.