Court interpreters have a fundamental role in providing access to justice. Interpreters work in 179 court locations serving 250 communities across Ontario.

Section 14 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees the right to the assistance of an interpreter for a party or witness who does not understand or speak the language in which the proceedings are being conducted. This right exists regardless of the language involved.

Through the Ministry of the Attorney General's Court Services Division, over 800 accredited freelance court interpreters provide interpretation in over 100 spoken languages, American Sign Language and Langue des signes du Québec.

Because of Ontario's diverse population, language interpretation services are in high demand. Each year, more than 150,000 courtroom hours of interpretation are provided.

Litigants who qualify for a waiver of court fees may ask the court to provide interpretation services in these instances. Waivers ensure fairness and consistency in the delivery of court services and provide accessible services for those who qualify.

To view a Guide to Fee Waiver Requests, please click here.

For more information about how to request a court interpreter, visit our How to Request an Interpreter page.