Modern Standard Arabic interpreter (MSA / Fus-ha)

When MSA is the right choice

Modern Standard Arabic (Fus-ha) is the formal register used in written legal documents, official Arabic broadcasts, and proceedings where parties speak different regional dialects. It's also the standard register for sight translation of documentary evidence.

Where MSA falls short

Most Arabic speakers do not naturally speak MSA in conversation. For witness evidence and PACE interviews involving rural or less-educated speakers, regional dialect interpretation is typically more reliable. I'll advise on the appropriate register at booking.

Typical MSA work

Translation of witness statements and case documents (with translator's statement of truth), formal tribunal hearings with mixed-dialect parties, and sight translation of evidence in court.

Rate

MSA: £45/hr standard, £55/hr court/counsel.