a. Interpreters
If it is hard for you to understand or speak English, you have the right to an interpreter in court.7 It does not matter what your native language is. The court is supposed to give you a free interpreter.
Tell the court clerk that you need an interpreter. It is best to request an interpreter before you get to court. You can also request one when you get to court. To get an interpreter request form go to:
www.mass.gov/courts/interpreter-request
You can email this form to the court.
Also, each court has a special clerk called a "Court Liaison" who requests interpreters. For the names and phone numbers of Court Liaisons ask the Clerk’s office, or go to: www.mass.gov/courts/docs/admin/interpreters/court-liaison-list.pdf
For more general information about court interpreter services go to: www.mass.gov/courts/selfhelp/language-access/interpreter-services/
b. Translated Forms
The courts have translated some forms. You can download translated forms by going to: www.mass.gov/courts/translated-forms-info
MassLegalHelp has also translated legal information into different languages. For more go to: www.masslegalhelp.org.