Why Proper Support Is Essential in Court for Those Whose First Language Isn’t English
- Falsely Accused Network
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
By Mike Thompson, Founder and Director of the Falsely Accused Network
At the Falsely Accused Network, we’ve supported many people facing both family court and criminal court proceedings. One issue that comes up time and again is the disadvantage faced by those whose first language is not English. The stakes in court are incredibly high , custody of your children, your liberty, your reputation and yet we’ve seen people stumble simply because they did not fully understand what was being said.
I cannot stress this enough: if English is not your first language, you must insist on the right support. That starts with an interpreter. An interpreter is not a luxury — it is a necessity. Without one, you run the serious risk of missing key details, misinterpreting questions, or even agreeing to things you do not fully understand.
It is also worth having a lay advisor or McKenzie Friend by your side. Legal language is not the same as everyday English. Words that seem familiar often carry completely different meanings in court. We’ve seen people nod along or agree to proposals simply because they thought they understood, when in reality the legal meaning was very different. Once something is agreed in court, it can be extremely difficult , sometimes impossible to undo.
And here’s the truth: even native English speakers struggle with legal terminology. Phrases like “undertaking,” “without prejudice,” or “findings of fact” are not straightforward. Lawyers, in theory, should break these terms down for clients, but in practice, they often don’t. Some rush through explanations or assume that their client has understood. This is where a McKenzie Friend or trusted lay advisor becomes invaluable. Someone who can explain the court process and terminology in plain, human language.
So my advice is clear:
Always request an interpreter if English is not your first language.
Consider having a McKenzie Friend or lay advisor alongside you.
Never agree to anything in court unless you are 100% sure you understand it.
Court is confusing, stressful, and intimidating — even more so if you are not completely fluent in English. Please do not face it alone without the proper support.
At the Falsely Accused Network, we will always encourage and help people to secure the right assistance so they can stand on equal footing in court. Nobody should lose their children, their freedom, or their good name simply because of a language barrier.
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Falsely Accused Network
📞 0204 538 8788
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