• Use plain and clear language. Don’t quote the statute word for word or use police jargon– specialized language can seem like a foreign language to people who have low literacy skills.
• Be specific. Don’t make broad, general statements or ask for them. Focus on specifics and on the recent past as it applies to the event or charges.
• Repeat information. Repeat in the same words the first time. Then try to phrase the information in a different way or present it in a different order. This gives the person more chances to understand.
• Be patient. Don’t interrupt the person or tell them to “give it to me straight.” Even though their story may seem rambling and repetitive, that may be their only way of expressing their ideas or understanding what is going on. Encourage the person to tell you everything about the situation, because you want to be fair.
• Get feedback. Ask the person to explain what you have said, using their own words. Ask them how well they understand legal information. Ask, “What does this mean to you, in your situation now?”
• Encourage questions. Tell the accused that you want them to understand the process and their situation. Encourage them to ask you questions about what is going on. Be careful not to react negatively if they ask very simple questions, or ask the same question more than once.
• Record what you did. Make notes of the facts that convinced you that the person understood everything. Make notes of the steps you took to ensure they understood.