When attending a 341 Meeting of Creditors with non-English speaking clients, the local practice dictated that the client bring their own translator (typically a friend or family member) to translate at the meeting. Under the U.S. Trustee’s recently implemented translator service program, this practice is no longer permissible.
Specifically, the protocol is to advise the Chapter 7 trustee that translation services will be needed prior to the 341 meeting. The trustee will then arrange to call a translation service phone number(in which 171 languages are available)at the 341 meeting so that an official translator will facilitate communication between the debtor and trustee.
This service provides accuracy and integrity to ensure that the bankruptcy debtor’s testimony is accurate and honest. In addition, it alleviates the need for debtors to involve a friend or family member in their personal financial affairs.
By: Justin H. Dion, Esq.
Comments