Simultaneous interpretation during hearings – Advice to counsel appearing before the Court

Hearings at the Court of Justice of the European Union are interpreted into the languages needed in the room. Working with simultaneous interpreters can be different from the standard conditions in national court hearings. This page offers guidance to counsel as to factors to take into consideration when working with simultaneous interpreters.

Simultaneous interpreters play an essential role in the unique multilingual environment of the Court of Justice of the European Union. They help legal counsel to communicate easily and fluently with Judges, Advocates General and other participants during hearings.

There are certain factors that legal counsel should take into consideration when working with simultaneous interpreters.

Navigating simultaneous interpretation as legal counsel

Simultaneous interpreters prepare in advance for every hearing and study the case-file in depth. However, to support their work and improve the effectiveness of the interpretation, you should:

  1. Avoid rapid reading aloud: Reading a written text quickly makes simultaneous interpretation difficult. Speak freely, at a natural and steady pace, to enable interpreters to work more effectively.
  2. Share written texts in advance: If you read out a written text that you have prepared, email it in advance – if possible – to the Interpretation Directorate at interpretation@curia.europa.eu. This will help the interpreters to prepare for the hearing – at the hearing itself, only what you actually say when addressing the Court will be interpreted. Of course, this text is considered a working document will only be used by the interpreters and will not be disclosed to anyone else, including the judges and other parties to the case.
  3. Provide reference notes: Even handwritten notes with references are useful. You can always give a copy to the interpreters just before the hearing.
  4. Cite clearly: Ensure that citations, references, figures, names and acronyms are quoted clearly and delivered slowly.
  5. Reduce interference: Before speaking, please remove your earphone, lower its volume, and place it away from the microphone in order to avoid any interference.
  6. Turn off mobile devices: Turn off all mobile devices completely, in order to avoid distractions and interruptions.

You can also contact the Interpretation Directorate by email at interpretation@curia.europa.eu or by phone at +352 4303-1.