Legal Interpreting and Questioning Techniques Explained

Language and law are closely linked, and language is fundamental to the application of the law. Legal, criminalistic, translational and psychological aspects of communication come together in interpreted questioning (hearings, interrogations, interviews) and must be taken into account, especially since the way in which the questioning outcomes are evaluated can have far-reaching legal consequences. Building on empirical studies and practice, this accessible text provides a transdisciplinary examination of questioning methods and strategies. The institutional framework conditions of a questioning situation are examined in the context of transdisciplinary cooperation.

This book also addresses the increasing use of technology and hybrid forms of translation and interpreting in the legal system, and shows different ways in which interpreters co-construct information. Chapters include summaries of key concepts and definitions, examples from existing literature combined with practical experience and the results of surveys conducted by the authors and further reading, as well as non-language-specific study activities. Activities include role plays on thematic scenarios involving different actors in criminal proceedings and discussion groups to enable reflection on ethical issues and discursive challenges.

This is a vital text for both advanced students and professionals in interpreting studies and criminology.

Mira Kadric is professor for Interpreting Studies and Didactics of Translation at the University of Vienna. Her research focuses especially on empirical work on interpreting, drawing on her experience as an interpreter for the courts, public services, and political institutions.

Monika Stempkowski is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Vienna. Her research focusses on questions of legal psychology, mentally ill perpetrators, illicit drugs and prison studies. She is registered as a clinical and health psychologist and as a certified mediator.

Ivana Havelka is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Vienna, Austria. Her research interests include dialogue interpreting and technology-mediated interpreting, with a focus on legal contexts. She has over a decade of experience as a court interpreter in Austria.