A court procedure brochure and signs explaining a defendant's rights are a proper substitute for interpreter services.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only for some languages
• D. If they are approved by the court

Answer: (B)

Providing effective communication in court requires a qualified interpreter to translate spoken proceedings in real time. A court procedure brochure and signs explaining a defendant’s rights cannot substitute for this live interpretation. They may offer helpful information, but they do not ensure the defendant understands what is being said, can follow rapid court dialogue, or ask clarifying questions as events unfold. The defendant’s rights to understand the charges, to understand rights and procedures, and to participate in the defense must be met through appropriate interpreter services, not static translated materials. These materials can supplement communication but cannot replace the need for a real-time, qualified interpreter.