Citation

Thronson VT, Orloff LE, Angel C, Rocio Molina SF, Anver Kalli Wells B. Fam. Intim. Partn. Viol. Q. 2016; 9(2): 15-24.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Civic Research Institute)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals have more rights under U.S. law than most people realize. This section advises readers on the nature of those rights and the best way to access them. Those prosecuting Maria L, as discussed in the first section, did not realize that federal law mandates the provision of "meaningful language access" for LEP individuals who are served by federal, state, or local agencies. This means providing an interpreter who is competent in the language of the LEP person. Using a Spanish interpreter with an individual who, like Maria, spoke an entirely different language (in her case, an indigenous language called Quiche) clearly did not qualify as meaningful language access, and of course, did not serve her advocacy needs. The authors instruct readers in how to interpret and apply the prescription for meaningful access in ways that will optimize outcomes for LEP clients.

Keywords: Language Services for LEP Persons

Language: en