Home / Rights & Programs / Right to Legal Translation — Navigating Courts in Hebrew
Right to Legal Translation — Navigating Courts in Hebrew in Bat Yam
Every defendant who does not have command of Hebrew is entitled to a free interpreter in all court proceedings. A constitutional right many are unaware of.
About Bat Yam
Bat Yam, adjacent to the sea and Tel Aviv, hosts an Israeli-Ethiopian community present in several neighbourhoods across the city. Its relatively accessible real-estate prices and attractive location make it a preferred housing option for those seeking a balance between centrality and accessibility.
The Right to Translation
The Code of Criminal Procedure and Supreme Court rulings establish: every person without command of Hebrew is entitled to a free interpreter in all criminal, civil and administrative proceedings.
What the Right Covers
Police investigation (demand "interpreter for Amharic"). Court hearings. Signing documents (never sign without full understanding). Indictment documents. Sentencing (right to explanation in your language).
What If Refused?
Don't sign any document you haven't understood. Say: "I refuse to continue without an interpreter." Rulings without translation can be appealed.
Who to Contact
Tebeka (free criminal defence): 1-800-20-20-16 | Public Defender (free): 02-5453555 | ACRI (rights violations): 03-6936893
📞 1-800-20-20-16
About Bat Yam
Related rights
Access to Government Services in Amharic — Complete Guide
By law — every public body must provide services in minority languages. Guide to all government agencies offering Amharic service.
Severance Pay — The Right Everyone Needs to Know
Every employee dismissed after one full year of work is entitled to severance: one month's last salary per year of work — calculated on last salary, not average.
Right to an Interpreter in Court and Government Offices
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.
Employment Rights for People with Disabilities
The Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law requires employers to make reasonable accommodations. Entitlements include a mobility allowance, tax benefits, and NII cost reduction.