What happens if an interpreter makes a mistake?
Not if, but when, because interpreters are human, and humans are not infallible. Interpreters are ethically obligated to correct their mistakes immediately — assuming they are aware of the mistake. If not, it is up to someone else to bring the error to the court’s attention. There are complex and sensitive issues of protocol involved. Poor interpretation has indeed caused injustices; that is why standards, training and certification are so vitally important.
Poor interpretation may cause injustices; that is why standards, training, and certification are so vitally important. However, interpreters are human, and humans are fallible, so mistakes do occasionally occur. When an interpreter becomes aware of an error in interpretation, the interpreter is ethically required to correct the mistake immediately. In court, the interpreter should address the judge, acknowledge the error, and request that the record reflect the correction. Outside of court, an interpreter should address the legal authority in the specific setting in which the interpreter is working. For example, if an interpreter has been contracted by an attorney to interpret in an attorney-client interview or witness interview, the interpreter should address the attorney to acknowledge an error. If an interpreter has been contracted by law enforcement, the interpreter should address the interviewing or interrogating officer. If an interpreter was contracted by a social services agenc
