The use of interpreting services in the courts is based on the signature of the United Kingdom to the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, and various criminal justice- related statutes and court rulings. The ideal type of interpreting, from the court's perspective, can be described in terms of neutrality and unobtrusiveness. The key position of the interpreter stems from his or her understanding of the language and culture of the court, and that of the defendant or witness. A national survey of magistrates', Crown, and county courts in England and Wales indicated most courts have developed mechanisms to cope with patterns of demand for language interpreters; most relied on police lists for the provision of interpreting services. It is clear that the quality of court interpreters have a direct bearing on the level of justice achieved before the law and that increased attention to interpreting services will enhance the protection afforded to the legal rights of non-English speakers in the U.K. courts. 2 tables and 8 references