c. The interpreter must never hold back information given by the
subject,
because it may adversely affect the interpreter or someone known to him.
d. You, in turn, must never bully, criticize, or admonish the interpreter in the
presence of the subject.
Criticism is made in private to avoid lowering the
prestige of the interpreter, and thereby impairing his effectiveness.
4. PROCEDURE FOR QUESTIONING THROUGH THE INTERPRETER.
The normal
procedure
for
questioning
through
the
interpreter
includes
the
following:
a. Prepare in advance, in writing, the questions you intend to ask.
The
questions should be clear, brief, and the type that will elicit brief, factual
answers.
b. The interpreter is provided these questions
in
advance,
so
he
may,
if
necessary, research any special vocabulary problems.
c. The interpreter should stand or sit to your side and slightly forward so that
he can speak with both you and the subject by just turning his head. He should not
be allowed to move about or to do anything that will distract the subject's
attention.
d. Address the subject directly, looking him in the eye, in order to hold his
attention.
The questions should be asked slowly and clearly in clear English.
Avoid slang and idiomatic expressions that may confuse the interpreter.
If the
subject and interpreter begin an extensive conversation or argument, put an
immediate stop to it.
e. The interpreter translates your questions into the language of the subject.
He should do this promptly in a clear, well-modulated voice, reproducing the tone
and emphasis of the investigator.
f. The subject should answer your questions in his native language.
g. The interpreter should repeat the subject's answer in English, in as literal
a translation as possible. He should not use such expressions as "He says" or "I
believe he is lying." If you want an explanation of an answer that concerns the use
or meaning of a word, request it from the interpreter later. If you need a fact
cleared up by subject, ask additional questions.
h. Never instruct the interpreter to ask the subject a question. Also, insist
the interpreter translate the subject's answer directly and literally.
In other
words, never turn to the interpreter and say, "Ask him if he knows John Doe," or
permit the interpreter to reply, "He says he does." Instead, the question should be
put directly to the subject in English, "Do you know John Doe?" and receive the
answer through the interpreter as though it were answered in English by the
subject, "Yes, I know him."
1-27
MP0018
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