Abstract (eng)
This master's thesis examines the development of court interpreting in the Czech Republic and the role of interpreters in the courtroom. The theoretical part discusses various interpreting techniques used in court interpreting, the evolution of court interpreting and its specific characteristics, as well as the role of interpreters and their presence in the courtroom. A particular focus is placed on courtroom interpreting, including the applied techniques, text typology, modes of action, and seating arrangements. Furthermore, it analyzes the historical development of court interpreting and relevant legislation since the Habsburg monarchy, the educational system, professional associations in the Czech Republic, and the methodology employed in this master thesis. The empirical part includes an interview with a court interpreter and the Deputy Chairman of the Chamber of Court Interpreters, as well as observations of court proceedings in the Czech Republic. The interview provides insights into the legislative process and revisions concerning interpreting, highlighting the positive and negative effects of the current Interpreters Act of 2019 on court interpreters. The observations offer information on applied interpreting techniques, the role of interpreters, characteristics of the courtroom setting, text typology, and modes of action during court proceedings. The findings of this master thesis contribute to a better understanding of the development of court interpreting in the Czech Republic and emphasize the importance of a solid education, specialized knowledge, and appropriate legal frameworks for court interpreters to effectively fulfill their duties.