I think we can all agree that the last year has seen a delay in court cases due to COVID-19, and it is important to get things back to normal as soon as possible.

Sadly, there have also been instances where cases that require an interpreter have been delayed and adjourned where the police or the court have failed to book an interpreter, or where the interpreter hasn’t attended.

Booking your qualified interpreter in advance is so important for all aspects of the legal proceedings, from taking instruction and witness statements through to court appearances.

We can support cross-border cases and arbitration in multiple languages, including video sign language for Deaf clients. But interpreter diaries are filling fast, so please book as early as possible.

Court interpreting is a highly skilled role, requiring great listening skills and empathy when asked to interpret sensitive and serious subjects. Knowledge and understanding of legal terminology is required. This expertise is incredibly valuable to the court, as a skilled interpreter can help avoid delays and errors.

Over the past twelve months, throughout the pandemic commercial organisations and law firms alike have adapted to remote working, and we at Prestige Network have also adapted and added to our portfolio of services to meet our client’s needs.

Remote interpreting via telephone and video has increased dramatically, and we are providing nationally to our clients from solicitors, the NHS, police, law firms and commercial organisations.

Currently our interpreting team are busy supporting the government with the resettlement programme of Afghanistan displaced persons.

Using our telephone and video interpreting services you are still able to access experienced and skilled court interpreters while all remaining remote. We have also seen an increase in the use of mobile apps for telephone and video interpreting.

Our service doesn’t stop with spoken interpreting, Prestige Network can prepare and translate all court documentation, transcribe video and audio content and certify to the level required by the court. We will work with your legal team to ensure the timelines are met and the court bundle is complete for you.

Remote language solutions are easy and effective to use and implement alongside court proceedings. In conclusion, simply because the UK courts are going remote does not mean that non-English and Deaf clients have to suffer without an interpreter.

What is your current challenge? I would like to work with you on your next case and look forward to your call.

Jackie Benn

I lead our legal interpreting and translation team. A countrywide network of experienced interpreters and translators, all being legal specialists with extensive experience. My responsibility extends to managing our in-house secure transcription team, and a team of skilled project managers.

I create the solutions that meet your legal translation and interpreting needs.