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Right to Legal Translation — Navigating Courts in Hebrew in Kiryat Gat
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 Kiryat Gat
Kiryat Gat has one of the highest proportions of Israeli-Ethiopian community members relative to total population in Israel. The community has been active in the city for decades, with a broad network of organisations, schools and initiatives — and a correspondingly high demand for fair housing options.
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 Kiryat Gat
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