What service should be provided to support immigrant survivors in IPV cases?

• A. Ignore language needs
• B. Rely on family translation
• C. Interpreter services and language-appropriate information
• D. Avoid legal aid

Answer: (C)

Ensuring access to interpreter services and language-appropriate information is essential for immigrant survivors in IPV cases. When communication is clear and culturally understood, survivors can accurately describe their situation, understand safety options, and make informed decisions about reporting, seeking shelter, or pursuing legal protections. Professional interpreters protect confidentiality, reduce the risk of misinterpretation, and help preserve the survivor’s autonomy and safety throughout legal and service processes. Materials and services delivered in the survivor’s language and in plain, culturally sensitive terms remove barriers to understanding rights, available resources, and steps to take, which is crucial for effective support and access to justice.

Relying on language-minimized approaches, such as ignoring language needs or using family members as translators, can lead to miscommunication, coercion, breaches of confidentiality, and inaccurate information—putting the survivor at greater risk. Avoiding legal aid leaves survivors without critical guidance and advocacy to navigate protections, immigration implications, and court options.