Requesting a Translator for Traffic Court
My question involves a traffic ticket from the state of: California
My wife got ticketed for 21950A. She submitted her trial by written declaration form but unfortunately the court still found her guilty. I've heard there's a reasonable chance the cop who issued the ticket may not show up on the court date, and the court will throw out her the ticket by default if that happens. The problem is my wife's English isn't good, certainly not good enough to defend herself in court. So my question is, if she doesn't get lucky and the cop does show up on court day, is there a way for her to request the court to assign her a translator (she speaks Mandarin Chinese)? I presume I'm not allowed to be her translator.
Re: 21950a (Question About Trial De Novo)
That's wishful thinking. The cases are usually scheduled for the officer's convenience and they have no reason NOT to attend.
If the defendant needs a translator, that request typically (local rules vary from court to court) must be made three days before the court date.
No you are not allowed to be her translator or otherwise counsel her during her case.
What makes you think she even has a defense? All you seem to be doing is trying to game the system and grasp at illusive technicalities.
Re: 21950a (Question About Trial De Novo)
Quote:
Quoting
flyingron
That's wishful thinking. The cases are usually scheduled for the officer's convenience and they have no reason NOT to attend.
If the defendant needs a translator, that request typically (local rules vary from court to court) must be made three days before the court date.
No you are not allowed to be her translator or otherwise counsel her during her case.
What makes you think she even has a defense? All you seem to be doing is trying to game the system and grasp at illusive technicalities.
Where/how do I get more info regarding how to get a translator? For instance, is there a form she needs to fill out (form number)?
Let's assuming she loses the court trial. Does she still get a chance to attend traffic school? Is it true completion of traffic school will wipe out the points associated with this ticket?
Re: 21950a (Question About Trial De Novo)
No, the judge can refuse traffic school. After the horse and pony show you intend to put on, I would plan on it being refused.
Re: 21950a (Question About Trial De Novo)
She can inform the court clerk that she needs a translator for the scheduled proceeding. You can help her communicate with the court clerk, if necessary. The clerk may be able to assist directly and should otherwise be able to tell you what steps you would need to take to request the translator.
Re: 21950a (Question About Trial De Novo)
In most counties, you get an offer of traffic school prior to the arraignment. If you file a TBD or go to trial, that offer is usually off the table.