Massachusetts is a diverse state where people speak many different languages.
The state Trial Court recognizes this and provides interpretation and translation services at no cost to court users.
You may have the right to an interpreter.
You have the right to translations of documents.
To obtain these services, follow these steps.
If you need an interpreter, find out at what court you have your appointment.
As soon as possible, call the court’s telephone number and ask for the Court Clerk’s office.
If you cannot find a telephone number on the court document sent to you, visit the online Court Locator at mass.gov/courthouse-locator.
There you can find the court’s telephone number and address and email.
Explain that you are requesting an interpreter in the language you need for your appointment.
The Clerk’s Office will schedule an interpreter in that language for you for your appointment.
If you need a translation of a document you received, call the court or Clerk’s Office that sent it to you as soon as possible before your appointment, so they can assist you.
In addition, many translated forms are available on the Translated Court Forms & Information page on Mass.gov.
If you cannot find a telephone number on the document sent to you, visit the online Court Locator at mass.gov/courthouse-locator.
There you can find the court’s telephone number and address.
Explain that you are calling to request a translation of the document in the language you need.
The Court Clerk will send the translation to you as soon as possible.
Please request interpretation and translation services as soon as possible, so the court can assist you. If you have any questions, call your local court.