The Role of Legal Translation in Ensuring Fair Trial Rights for Arabic-Speaking Immigrants in U.S. Courts

Abstract

This study investigates the critical role of legal translation in ensuring the fair trial rights of Arabic-speaking defendants in US courts. It also introduces the Legal Arabic Translation Enhancement Initiative (LATEI), a framework designed to standardise Arabic legal interpretations, implement certification protocols, and improve interpreter training. A mixed-methods approach was used to collect data from Arabic-speaking defendants, licensed court interpreters, and legal experts in three US states with large Arabic-speaking populations. Research tools included surveys, analysis of court transcripts, and evaluation of interpreter performance. Findings revealed pervasive linguistic errors, including semantic inaccuracies, omissions, and register inconsistencies—that compromise defendants’ understanding of charges and participation in proceedings. Interventions under LATEI led to significant improvements in translation accuracy, terminology consistency, and courtroom effectiveness. Results indicate economic benefits through reduced retrials and appeals, as well as enhanced trust between immigrant communities and judicial institutions. The study recommends broader implementation and integration of AI-assisted interpretation to complement human expertise, supporting justice, equity, and operational efficiency in the U.S. judicial system.