What is court interpreting?
It is consecutive interpretation of speech from one language to another in a legal setting which sometimes requires the ability to do simultaneous interpreting. Requires legal information and background in the legal profession. It is a more demanding form of interpreting because the interpreter must be able to go to and from two languages in consecutive and into at least one language in simultaneous, usually the language that is not English. In addition, the interpreter cannot fix or modify any words, because any modification to the original statement would taint the legal case. Because these are adversary proceedings, parties can become very angry if they sense any deviation from the formalities. The court interpreter is not isolated in a booth and must depend solely on hearing and visual cues to find out what is happening. Substantial court work allows the interpreter to become familiar with court terminology and to feel comfortable in the court room. Return to list of questions What
