Post-Hearing Transcript Audit & Expert Declaration

What This Service Provides

This service is designed for immigration and federal practitioners who suspect that interpretation problems contributed to an adverse outcome, but need a precise, documented record of what went wrong and why it matters legally.

Typical findings:

Omissions of qualifying language, nuance, or mitigating detail
Summaries that distort the original testimony
Incorrect word choices that alter legal significance
Misinterpretation of dates, numbers, and chronology

In prior matters, full-hearing audits have identified between 60 and 120 distinct interpretation issues per hearing, many with potential impact on credibility findings and overall fairness of the proceeding.

Deliverables You Receive

Detailed discrepancy log (Excel or PDF) with timestamps, speaker, and error type
Severity rating for each issue (stylistic, minor, significant, material)
Sworn expert declaration explaining methodology and key discrepancies
Issue summary tied to due process, credibility, and fairness themes
Optional consultation with counsel to align findings with litigation strategy

Best Suited For

Adverse merits decisions in immigration court
Cases where the client consistently reported “that is not what I said”
Records with long testimony via interpreter and no bilingual counsel present
Preparation of motions to reopen or appeals raising interpretation error

How the Process Works

Initial Conflict & Case Fit Check

Counsel provides basic case information and the decision. A quick conflict check is performed, and we confirm whether the record is suitable for an interpretation-focused audit.

Record Collection

You provide the full audio recording, the certified English transcript, and any available notes. Secure transfer options can be arranged for sensitive or large files.

Line-by-Line Comparative Review

The interpreter conducts a methodical comparison: Russian audio → interpreter’s rendition → English transcript, identifying discrepancies and categorizing them by type and impact.

Draft Log & Preliminary Call

A preliminary discrepancy log is prepared. Counsel has the option of a brief call to highlight areas of particular interest before the declaration is finalized.

Final Declaration & Exhibits

You receive a signed declaration and final discrepancy log ready to be attached as an exhibit to your motion or brief, along with a short cover summary if requested.

What Counsel Should Provide

Full-length audio recording of the hearing (preferably original court recording)
Certified English transcript used by the court or on appeal
The decision (IJ decision, BIA decision if any, and/or ROP excerpts)
Any client or counsel notes flagging perceived misinterpretations
Deadlines for motions, notices of appeal, or briefing schedules

Turnaround Times:

Short hearings (1–2 hours): often within 7–10 business days
Full merits hearings: typically 2–3 weeks depending on length and docket
Rush options may be available for imminent deadlines