Non-verbal communication is a fundamental element of intercultural interactions.
This paper seeks to discuss non-verbal expressions, such as gazes, long
pauses, pointing gestures, nodding and other head movements, produced by the
participants in Polish-English courtroom interactions with a view to studying
the interpreter’s obligation to provide accurate renditions and to remain impartial.
It is hypothesized that not only may non-verbal components of the original
speakers’ utterances have an impact on the interpreters’ renditions, but also
that the interpreters’ own non-verbal expressions have the potential to add to
the meaning of their utterances. The results of the analysis show that all participants,
including interpreters, use a non-verbal channel and that body language
can affect the meaning of the messages transmitted throughout the interactions
and lead to a possible lack of accuracy and/or impartiality in interpreting.
