Texas SB1537 mandates the appointment of an interpreter in criminal proceedings for non-English speaking individuals.

Texas SB1537 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to ensure an interpreter is appointed in criminal proceedings for individuals who do not understand or speak English. The court must appoint an interpreter if a motion is filed by any party or on the court's own motion, and if the court determines the person charged or a witness does not understand or speak English. The interpreter must be sworn to interpret for the person charged or the witness. Any person may be subpoenaed to act as an interpreter, subject to the same rules and penalties as other witnesses.

Texas SB1537 mandates the appointment of an interpreter in criminal proceedings for non-English speaking individuals.

Texas SB1537 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to ensure an interpreter is appointed in criminal proceedings for individuals who do not understand or speak English. The court must appoint an interpreter if a motion is filed by any party or on the court's own motion, and if the court determines the person charged or a witness does not understand or speak English. The interpreter must be sworn to interpret for the person charged or the witness. Any person may be subpoenaed to act as an interpreter, subject to the same rules and penalties as other witnesses.