Interpreter

Throughout all acts of the process, whether they are conducted orally, such as witness interviews, or in writing, like letters notifying participants to attend the trial, Portuguese is the language used. When a person who does not speak Portuguese needs to participate in the process, the authority responsible for a specific procedural act requests the appointment of an interpreter who is proficient in both Portuguese and the language spoken by that participant. For example, if a witness is Russian and does not speak Portuguese, an interpreter will be appointed. This interpreter's role will be to translate everything said in Russian by the witness into Portuguese and to translate into Russian whatever is said or asked in Portuguese.

An interpreter is also appointed when it is necessary to translate documents written in a foreign language. When individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing need to give statements, a sign language interpreter is appointed. For mute individuals, questions are asked orally, and they respond in writing.

The interpreter’s role in these situations is crucial to ensure that involved individuals can understand what is being communicated to them and that they can effectively participate in the process. The appointment of an interpreter comes at no cost to the participant who requires their services.