If you or a witness do not speak English and require a foreign language interpreter in order to testify, you should plan on making arrangements for an interpreter prior to your hearing.  Those in need of interpretive services may contact the court’s interpretive services office at (702) 671- 4578.

Can the court appoint an interpreter?

The court does have the discretion to appoint a foreign language interpreter.  See Caballero v. Seventh Judicial Dist. Court ex rel. County of White Pine , 167 P.3d 415 (Nev. 2007).

Can a person bring a family member or friend to interpret?

A person may not act as an interpreter if he is a spouse of the witness, related to the witness, biased against one of the parties or otherwise interested in the outcome of the case.  NRS 50.054.

Must the court provide an interpreter for a disabled person?

Yes.  The court must provide an interpreter for individuals who are deaf, mute or have a speaking impairment.  The court may assess the expense of the interpreter as a cost.