JEFFERSON COUNTY, Texas — The Jefferson County judicial system is facing struggles in the courtroom due to a lack of local translators to interpret for non-English speakers.
The language barrier is affecting Jefferson County judges, court administrators and causing a financial strain on the county's budget.
There's a rising demand for local interpreters to translate legal proceedings in the courtroom.
Court interpreters need some time to make sure everyone involved understands the proceedings.
County leaders say translators are being brought in from outside the county, which costs time and money. The county is having to out source translators because without them, cases can get delayed which could mean more jail time for defendants.
"We just had a heck of a time you know getting, finding translators," said Judge Randy Shelton of the 279th District Court.
Judge Shelton tells 12News that the county is contracted with "Masterword", which is a company out of Houston.
Judge Shelton says there's a statute that requires court certified interpreters to be present.
"There is a statute that requires that we have court certified interpreters whenever that's possible," said Judge Shelton.
The county is responsible for paying translators' travel fees in addition to the hourly pay for certified translators, which can range from $50 to $150.
"To date, we've spent about $35,000," said County Auditor Fran Lee.
Last year, they spent more than $26,000 on bringing in certified translators.
"The vast majority of our costs is associated with the certified translators," said Lee.
Spanish and Vietnamese are the two languages that are needed the most.
"We had a Vietnamese family one time, that's kind of what brought this to my attention."
Judge Shelton says non-certified translators have been used in the past, but they're not preferred.
"If you're not a court certified translator, sometimes a translator will start engaging in a conversation with the party in the middle of the court case," said Judge Shelton. "And you always have to worry, well, is the interpreter, especially, if it's maybe connected to the family, is that interpreter telling them what to say, suggesting that they change their answer?"
Until local Spanish and Vietnamese speaking interpreters are found, Judge Shelton says leaders need to work together.
"I think the big trick is just getting word out to the attorneys," he said. "If you need an interpreter, you need to let us know ahead of time."
For more information on how to become a licensed court interpreter, visit here. You must complete an orientation and a written exam.
This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.