Depositions
Professional support for legal disputes related to the USA
There are many differences between German and American law. Especially the way in which court proceedings are carried out in the United States differs greatly from how things are done in Continental Europe. One major difference is the deposition. In US court proceedings, lawyers of the parties concerned may question witnesses in pre-trial proceedings. Depositions may be carried out in the United States or abroad, which is why we often interpret for depositions in both Europe and the USA.
Interpreting at Depositions
Depositions are held in English. As a rule, it is always a good idea to have a competent interpreter at your side, even if the witness may be pretty good at understanding and speaking English.
Generally, depositions often take quite a long time and deal with complicated and very specific issues. If not all participants are English native speakers, it is therefore much easier for all when a professional interpreter is present. That way, all parties concerned can rely on everything being understood by all.
Why two interpreters are, in fact, necessary during a deposition
We are fully aware that the costs incurred for legal disputes with US American companies can at times be frightfully high.
Yet, consider the following: Especially when it comes to deposing a witness – Every. Single. Word. Counts. And when a deposition takes longer than expected, the matter can only be managed with two interpreters. The issues for which the interpreters are required also tend to be highly complex.
So it always makes sense to kick off with two interpreters – even if a scheduled meeting takes four hours only in the end.
What is the job of a check interpreter during a deposition?
Check interpreters are sometimes contracted to participate in a deposition. A check interpreter is someone who only intervenes when the active interpreter makes a mistake. It is very common in the USA to bring your own interpreter – who then, when in doubt, will take sides with the party engaging them.
The European approach is slightly different. Here, interpreters act as neutral go-betweens without favouring either party. Or – in a more legal context – they are more likely to adopt the position typically attributed to a notary rather than an attorney-at-law, consequently being obligated to remain impartial. This is how interpreters of Schleicher Sprachservice are known to do their craft.
Our deposition interpreters will be right where you need them, no matter whether that's Frankfurt or Washington.
Contact information
- Schleicher Sprachservice GmbH & Co. KGVilbeler Landstraße 25560388 Frankfurt am Main
- 06109 723531
- info@schleicher-sprachen.de
Business hours
Monday – Friday
9:00 am – 1:00 pm
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm