Language is a funny thing. Certain words or phrases have no direct translation to other languages. The ever-growing library of slang can be next to impossible to convey from one language to another. Homonyms and common words used as names in other contexts, for example, can present problems if you are in a foreign country and trying to articulate yourself. When taking depositions abroad, having a qualified interpreter is a must to avoid misunderstandings and to keep from repeating and re-interpreting questions (as well as the witness’ answers). The right interpreter saves precious time and money in your depositions. You don’t want anything to be lost in translation.
There is the famous example of Clark Gable ordering a drink at the Peninsula Hotel in Hong Kong, circa 1954. The King of Hollywood was in the country filming Soldier of Fortune, and walked into the hotel’s lobby bar to unwind. The bar was deserted except for the busboy Johnny. Gable ordered a screwdriver, a simple drink popular in America. Johnny was confused, never having heard of the cocktail, and finally presented the film star with a toolbox, much to Gable’s amusement. Although Johnny understood and spoke English, he didn’t understand what the movie star was ordering. Gable then taught Johnny how to make the drink, and introduced Hong Kong to the screwdriver.
Clark Gable giving mixology training to a young boy in Hong Kong makes for an amusing anecdote. Certainly, a funny mistranslate during your deposition can ease some tension and make for your own amusing story. But you want an accurate record of your deposition. This requires accurate interpretation of what is said and intended in the deposition, so both sides understand each other and can respond accordingly. It isn’t enough to have a translator who speaks both the witness’ language and the attorneys’ language. A proper interpreter knows and understands the nuances of each language, and specializes in a relevant field or fields (e.g., technology or tax codes), making him/her perfect for depositions involving related topics.
