The discussion first examines the statutory and constitutional bases for the right to a court interpreter, followed by consideration of the unfairness of the current system to non-English speaking defendants. A conceptual framework for an examination of court interpretation is then developed by drawing an analogy between hearsay and court interpretation and then applying the conceptual framework to the problem by analyzing what safeguards should be incorporated into the system based on how court interpretation might qualify as a hearsay exception. A number of reforms are proposed. The reforms suggested are an extension of the Federal Court Interpreters Act to State courts, the development of some form of certification for interpreters of all languages, checks on the work of interpreters, increased attention to the attraction of competent people to the profession of interpreter, and an absolute prohibition on interpretation by interested parties. 96 footnotes