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Right to an Interpreter in Court and Government Offices in Holon
Anyone who does not speak Hebrew is entitled to an interpreter in any legal proceeding — a constitutional right. Government offices (BTL, Interior Ministry, Aliyah Ministry) must also provide translation. The right is free and at state expense.
About Holon
Holon hosts a growing Israeli-Ethiopian community, primarily second-generation members seeking proximity to Tel Aviv while maintaining accessible housing costs. The city offers a diverse real-estate market and an urban environment with developed services and cultural institutions.
The Constitutional Basis
The right to an interpreter in legal proceedings is derived from the Basic Law: Human Dignity and Liberty. It applies in all criminal proceedings without exception, and in civil, family, and administrative cases on request. Israel's state cannot conduct significant proceedings against a person who does not understand the language.
In Court
Request an interpreter in advance: write to the court clerk specifying the case number, hearing date, and that you need Amharic. At the hearing, if no interpreter is present, tell the judge directly. The judge must postpone the hearing — a criminal trial cannot proceed without full comprehension.
The Courts Administration maintains a registry of certified Amharic interpreters. Ask the court secretary: "Do you have a certified Amharic interpreter on the list?"
Government Offices
- *BTL (6050):** Amharic telephone service available — select "Amharic service."
- *Ministry of Aliyah (2994):** Amharic-speaking representatives — specify when calling.
- Ministry of Interior: Request an appointment with an interpreter in advance.
If an Interpreter Is Refused
In court — state the objection on the record to the judge. In a government office — request in writing, then escalate to the Public Ombudsman (ombudsman.gov.il) or TEBEKA (072-2424622).
Cost
The right is free — the state pays for court interpreters. If you are ever asked to pay for an interpreter in a legal proceeding, refuse and contact TEBEKA.
Ethiopian community in Holon
- Community population
- ~5,000
- Share of city
- ~4%
- Main neighbourhoods
- קריית שרת, אזור
- Community services
- ENP, מתנ"ס
More rights in Holon
This right in other cities
FAQ — Holon
- How many Ethiopian-Israelis live in Holon?
- The Ethiopian-Israeli community in Holon numbers approximately ~5,000 residents — around ~4% of the city's population. Main neighbourhoods: קריית שרת, אזור.
- How do I claim Right to an Interpreter in Court and Government Offices in Holon?
- Contact Tebeka — they operate nationally including in Holon. For support: ENP, מתנ"ס.
- What community support is available in Holon for this right?
- In Holon, the following organisations can assist with paperwork, translation and entitlement: ENP, מתנ"ס.
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