In the legal industry there’s no margin for error because people’s livelihood and freedom depend on it. This is where the stakes are high, and misunderstandings can lead to serious consequences.

Language barriers are not an excuse for misunderstanding laws, legal proceedings, and the judicial process.

If you’re involved in the legal industry, you may have heard of Video Remote Interpretation (VRI), but do you really know what it is and how it can help you?

As a Language Service Provider (LSP), we help our clients deliver real-time interpretation services via video conferencing, connecting qualified interpreters with courts, law enforcement agencies, and legal professionals across the country and around the world.

Here's a brief overview of VRI, its primary uses, the benefits that have made it an indispensable resource to the legal system, and also a couple of potential challenges you should be aware of when you use it.

What is VRI?

VRI is a type of language interpretation conducted via video technology.

Unlike in-person or over-the-phone interpretation (OPI), VRI allows you to see the interpreter in real time, so you can not only hear the words spoken, but also see essential non-verbal cues such as the facial expressions and body language of the person you’re talking to.

This visual context is especially important in legal settings, where subtle communication nuances can affect the outcome of your case.

With VRI, interpreters can be instantly connected to any location with internet access and video equipment, such as a tablet, laptop, or courtroom monitor. This means you can provide services on-demand without the logistical delays and costs associated with in-person interpreters.

Now let’s take a look at the applications of VRI in the legal system.

Courtroom Proceedings

One of the most common uses of VRI is in courtroom settings. From arraignments and hearings to trials and sentencing, courts often require interpretation services for defendants, witnesses, and victims who do not speak the primary language of the court.

VRI gives you real-time access to certified legal interpreters, ensuring you’re compliant with constitutional and statutory rights.

In many jurisdictions, VRI is used to support high-volume dockets or rural courtrooms where in-person interpreters are scarce. It allows for flexible scheduling, reduces waiting times, and lowers costs associated with travel and interpreter downtime.

Attorney-Client Meetings

As a lawyer, you can use VRI to communicate with clients who speak different languages. This can happen during pre-trial preparations, jail visits, or consultations.

Because confidentiality is critical, VRI platforms used in these settings typically include secure encryption and privacy features to comply with attorney-client privilege standards.

Law Enforcement Interactions

If you’re in law enforcement, you need accurate and quick communication from arrest to interrogation.

VRI allows you to quickly connect with interpreters when interacting with limited English proficient (LEP) individuals, helping make sure that Miranda rights are understood, statements are accurately recorded, and your procedures are conducted lawfully.

This is especially important during initial encounters, where misunderstandings can escalate rapidly. VRI gives you clarity and reduces the likelihood of miscommunication that could jeopardize your investigation or an individual's rights.

Immigration and Asylum Hearings

Immigration courts, which deal with high volumes of people with LEP, have increasingly turned to VRI to manage caseloads efficiently.

The technology lets interpreters be shared across multiple locations, increasing access without sacrificing quality.

If you’re working with asylum seekers and immigrants navigating complex legal procedures, VRI allows you to make sure their authentic voices are heard, and their stories are an accurate account of events.

The Benefits of VRI

It’s clear to see why VRI is in such demand in legal systems the world over. In each of the use cases above the benefits are:

• Accessibility and Speed – VRI gives you near-instant access to interpreters in a wide range of languages and dialects, overcoming the geographic limitations of in-person interpreters. This is especially valuable if you’re dealing with rare language pairs that can be very difficult to sort out locally.
• Cost Efficiency – Without the need to pay for interpreter travel, wait time, or accommodation, VRI significantly reduces the financial burden on court systems and legal departments.
• Quality and Consistency – A good LSP will have a roster of trained, certified interpreters familiar with legal terminology. They’ll also help you schedule specific interpreters based on case needs, ensuring continuity and accuracy.
• Increased Safety – Think back to the COVID-19 pandemic, or other health emergencies that require social distancing, and VRI still gives you an effective communication channel. It also minimizes individual contact in high-security environments such as jails or immigration detention centers.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite its many advantages, VRI is not without challenges. Technical issues such as poor internet connectivity or malfunctioning equipment can interrupt your proceedings.

Some people, particularly older individuals or those unfamiliar with technology, may struggle to use the platforms effectively.

These issues, however, are easy for you to overcome. Courts and legal institutions should be encouraged to invest in proper infrastructure, provide training for staff and users, and ensure that VRI platforms are compliant with legal standards for accessibility, confidentiality, and quality.

Revolutionizing Communication in the Legal System

Without VRI our legal system would look very different. It helps create an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to be treated equally and fairly.

Bringing VRI into your legal operations doesn’t need to be difficult or resource draining. When you partner with the right LSP, they’ll help you provide immediate, cost-effective, and reliable interpretation services for your clients.

Do you have VRI requirements in a legal setting? If so, we’d love to talk to you. Consultations are free and there’s no obligation. You’re in safe hands with us as we’re ISO 17100 and ISO 9001 compliant, have over twenty years of professional translation experience, and have earned the trust of organizations around the world.