Interpreting · 14 May 2025

Preparing for a Court or Medical Appointment with a Chinese Interpreter

If you or someone you know needs a Chinese interpreter for a court hearing, medical consultation, or other official setting in Australia, preparation is key to ensuring the process goes smoothly.

Whether you're a client, legal representative, or medical professional, knowing how to work effectively with an interpreter can save time, reduce stress, and improve outcomes — especially when it comes to Mandarin interpretation.

🧾 Why Use a NAATI-Certified Interpreter?

In legal and medical settings, only NAATI-certified interpreters are recognised for their professionalism, accuracy, and ethical conduct. Courts and hospitals rely on certified interpreters to:

Accurately convey spoken information between English and Chinese
Maintain confidentiality
Remain impartial and objective
Avoid summarising or altering meaning

Certified interpreters follow strict codes of conduct to ensure your words are conveyed faithfully — not “translated loosely.”

✅ How to Prepare as a Client (Chinese-Speaking)

If you’re the person who needs interpretation:

Bring key documents: Bring your ID, appointment letter, or relevant case/medical documents.
Speak in short sentences: This makes it easier for the interpreter to accurately relay what you say.
Be honest and clear: The interpreter is there to help you communicate — not to judge.
Avoid side conversations: Everything you say will be interpreted to the other party. Keep your communication focused.
Ask questions: If you don’t understand something, speak up. The interpreter will help you get clarity.

🧑‍⚖️ Tips for Legal or Medical Professionals

If you’re arranging an interpreter for your client or patient:

Book early: Qualified Chinese interpreters are in high demand, especially in court and hospital settings.
Brief the interpreter (if appropriate): A short pre-session can help clarify terminology or expectations (while respecting impartiality).
Speak clearly and directly to the client — not to the interpreter.
Pause often: Allow time for interpretation, especially if using consecutive interpreting.
Avoid jargon: Technical language may not translate easily. Simplify if possible.

⚠️ What Not to Do

Don’t ask the interpreter to give advice or explain concepts beyond the original message.
Don’t assume family members or bilingual staff can interpret in legal or medical settings — they may lack training and confidentiality safeguards.
Don’t skip the interpreter — miscommunication can lead to serious legal or health consequences.