Thread: More Languages Needed in California Courts

More Languages Needed in California Courts

New America Media, News Report, Ekaterina Basilaia, Posted: Jul 18, 2008

Editor’s Note: With California’s rapidly changing demographics, ethnic and racial diversity have become a necessity in the state's judicial system. More languages need to be spoken in court, reports NAM contributor Ekaterina Basilaia.

SAN FRANCISCO — Koy Saephan began working as a court interpreter to gain insight into the legal system before pursuing law school. For the past eight years she has worked as a certified Mien language interpreter in California courts.

Although Saephan is based in Sacramento, she often travels throughout the state to work in other counties because there are so few certified Mien language court interpreters.

“Helping someone understand what is being said is so important,â€

California courts are planning to launch a program that would provide litigants in civil matters with legal counsel as well, even though it is not required by the Constitution. If it succeeds, George says, California will be the first state in the United States to have such a program.

Looks like California would be the place to sue somebody, then. Should we all file suit against the ACLU?

How about fewer languages....like one, English.

Maybe that would be the motivation the learn English. Speaking English and gain access-no English-no access.

Originally Posted by Captainron

California courts are planning to launch a program that would provide litigants in civil matters with legal counsel as well, even though it is not required by the Constitution. If it succeeds, George says, California will be the first state in the United States to have such a program.

Looks like California would be the place to sue somebody, then. Should we all file suit against the ACLU?

Didn't you know the offical greeting here is "I'll be sue'n ya"?

[quote]“Helping someone understand what is being said is so important,â€