The By Lawyers Domestic Violence commentary has been updated to include a section on the Magistrates Court’s power to engage an accredited interpreter where required.
For private domestic and family violence proceedings, where the application indicates that either party requires an interpreter, the registrar will locate and retain an interpreter.
At the first mention, if the Court is satisfied that the interests of justice require an interpreter to be appointed to assist with the comprehension of the proceeding, the Court will order the appointment of an interpreter for further mentions.
In these circumstances, Queensland Courts will bear the cost of the interpreter’s engagement. See Practice Direction No. 6 of 2017.