Legal Interpreting and Social Discourse

Legal interpreting covers a broad spectrum of interpreting activities related to law. This chapter takes a sociopolitical point of view to discuss interpreting in legal matters in judicial as well as extrajudicial settings. Based on international regulations and democratic ideals, it shows the importance of interpreting for equal access to law, with a focus on the possibilities and scope of action available to interpreters rather than the restrictions. By presenting the legal activities and text types that occur, the chapter develops strategies for interpreters for use in different settings and situations to ensure the best possible communication for all participants. In this context, the chapter also addresses the demand for multipartiality and equiproximity between the interpreter and the other participants in the communication process.