Who is responsible for providing a licensed interpreter in court when a defendant does not speak English?

• A. The defendant
• B. The court
• C. The prosecution
• D. The jury

Answer: (B)

When someone in court does not speak English, a licensed interpreter must be provided to ensure the defendant can understand charges, testify, and participate in the defense. This obligation lies with the court because ensuring clear communication is essential for due process and a fair trial. The interpreter translates everything said in real time and must be a certified professional to accurately handle legal terminology and nuances, preventing misunderstandings that could affect the outcome. The defendant does not provide this service, and it wouldn’t be appropriate for the prosecution or the jury to arrange it; their roles are to present the case and decide guilt or innocence, not to secure language accommodation. If an interpreter isn’t provided, the defendant’s rights could be compromised, and the trial or any conviction could be challenged.