In criminal proceedings, where language barriers exist, the role of a certified interpreter is crucial to ensuring justice is served. In Panama, interpreters who participate in criminal cases are held to strict legal standards, and failure to meet these standards can result in severe legal consequences. This article will explore the responsibilities of Panamanian-certified interpreters in criminal cases and the legal repercussions they face if they provide false testimony or translations.
Legal Responsibilities of Interpreters in Panama
Panama’s Criminal Code makes it clear that interpreters have a duty to provide accurate and truthful translations. Under Article 385 of the Panamanian Penal Code, anyone who gives false testimony, including interpreters, can face significant penalties. This article specifically highlights the role of interpreters, stating that if they knowingly provide false interpretations or omit important details from their translations, they will be subject to imprisonment.
Full Text of Article 385:
Article 385.
The witness, expert, interpreter, or translator who, before the competent authority, affirms a falsehood or denies or hides the truth, in whole or in part of their declaration, opinion, interpretation, or translation, will be sanctioned with imprisonment of two to four years.
When the offense is committed in a criminal case to the detriment of the accused or forms the basis on which a judicial authority issues a sentence, the prison sentence will be from four to eight years.
This article emphasizes the severe penalties interpreters face if they fail to perform their duties honestly. If the false testimony or translation is crucial to a criminal case or results in harm to the accused, the prison sentence can be as high as eight years.
The Critical Role of Certified Interpreters
Certified interpreters in Panama serve a fundamental function in ensuring that all parties involved in a criminal case understand the proceedings. Whether they are translating testimony, legal documents, or other critical communication, their role is to ensure accuracy and neutrality.
Key Responsibilities:
- Accuracy and Integrity: Interpreters are expected to provide accurate and complete translations. Any omission, distortion, or false interpretation can lead to legal consequences, as stipulated by the law.
- Penalties for False Testimony: Article 385 outlines the penalties for interpreters who provide false or incomplete translations. Such actions are punishable by two to four years of imprisonment. However, if the false testimony significantly impacts the outcome of the case, the penalty increases to four to eight years.
- Protection from Coercion: Interpreters must remain free from external influences such as threats, bribery, or intimidation. Under Article 387, those who are coerced into giving false testimony or obstructing the process can face imprisonment of five to eight years.
- Ethical Conduct: Certified interpreters are bound by ethical codes that demand impartiality and professionalism. Their role is not just to translate words, but to ensure the fairness of the trial, maintaining objectivity at all times.
Conclusion
The role of a certified interpreter in Panamanian criminal cases is pivotal in ensuring that justice is carried out. They must uphold high standards of accuracy, integrity, and professionalism. Article 385 of the Panamanian Criminal Code outlines the severe penalties for interpreters who provide false or misleading translations, emphasizing the seriousness of their duties.
Panama relies on certified interpreters to facilitate communication in the legal system, ensuring that all parties—regardless of their language—are treated fairly. Interpreters must understand the legal implications of their role and avoid any actions that could jeopardize the integrity of the justice process.
If you need to translate a legal document or require the services of a certified interpreter to file a criminal complaint in Panama, please contact us at +507 6290-3468 or send us an email at info@certifiedtranslatorpanama.com.