Language Rights and Criminal Procedure

Abstract

The aim of this article is to argue that the right to use their own language in court is a fundamental right protected by Chilean law, intrin-sically linked to due process and equality. It argues about the value of cul-ture in a multicultural society and justification for differential treatment of persons belonging to indigenous minorities. The conclusions reflect on the notion of community standards multicultural and oral trials must meet to respect the fundamental rights of the indigenous languages mood involved in criminal proceedings.