The right to interpretation during criminal procedure – the position under EU Law.
As a result of EU Directive 2010/64/EU, EU Law now guarantees the right of EU citizens to be interviewed, to take part in hearings and to receive legal advice in their own language during any part of a criminal proceeding, in all courts in the EU.
Enhanced Human Rights
According to the European Commission this now ensures full compliance with the standards provided by the European Convention on Human Rights and the case law of the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg as well as the Charter of Fundamental Rights.
Who will pay for the translation costs?
Translation and interpretation costs will have to be met by the Member State, not by the suspect.
Series of Fair Trial Measures
EU Directive 2010/64/EU is the first in a line of Directives. It is followed by :-
1) a Directive on the right to information in criminal proceedings; and
2) a Directive on the right to access to a lawyer.
What is the deadline for EU Member States to implement the law?
The deadline was the 27 October 2013.
Niall Colgan is a Cork based Solicitor with over 10 years experience in private practice. 
