Below are frequently asked questions about interpreter certification and why it makes sense to hire a certified interpreter.
What is a certified interpreter?
An interpreter is certified by a certifying entity that tests candidates using competency exams. These exams measure the interpreter's language skills and interpreting ability. In California, as in many states, this exam is administered by the Judicial Council. It is comprised of a written test in both languages. These written exams are similar to college entrance exams, except that they are in both languages and some exams include translations. The exams test general knowledge of the language and are not specific to a particular field. Interpreters who pass the written exam (at least 80% accuracy) qualify for the oral exam, which consists of sight translation, consecutive interpretation, and simultaneous interpretation.
Using a certified interpreter gives you the confidence that the individual in question has been tested by a certifying body. A professional who can handle the demands of court interpreting is someone who will perform well in your non-court assignment.
What are the qualifications of court interpreters?
Court interpreting is a profession that demands high levels of knowledge and skill. In fact, merely speaking two languages is hardly sufficient. Professional court interpreters must:
1 Sight translation: oral translation of documents, e.g., pre-sentence reports, letters to judges, birth certificates, marriage certificates, contracts, agreements, etc.
2 Consecutive interpreting: interpreting questions from judges, lawyers, at business meetings, or press conferences (from English into another language) and the witness's or party's answers (from that language into English)
3 Simultaneous interpreting: interpreting everything while it is being said during a proceeding from English into the language of a person sitting at counsel table
Why should I use a certified interpreter for non-court-related matters?
Using a certified interpreter gives you the confidence that the individual in question has been tested by a certifying body. A professional who can handle the demands of court interpreting is someone who will perform well in your non-court assignment.
Why should I use a certified interpreter for my conference?
Some conference interpreters have a degree in interpretation. Some have been interpreting exclusively at conferences for many years and have mastered the skills required for such a demanding job. However, still other interpreters have certification from the Courts, a designation that attests to their professional skills in both languages. Certified interpreters have been tested in the consecutive mode of interpretation, the simultaneous mode, and sight translation (reading a document in a foreign language and speaking in English, and vice versa). They handle very sensitive matters that can have a significant impact on people’s lives, such as sentencing. Using a certified interpreter gives you the assurance that the individual will be able to execute your assignment with skill and professionalism. Keep in mind that although a certified interpreter has been tested by a respected and accredited entity, her credentials alone do not guarantee a perfect fit. It still behooves you to carefully interview the interpreter you wish to hire or have a reputable language services agency do the interviewing for you.
How does a certified interpreter prepare for an assignment? How can I help?
The first question an interpreter usually asks a client about an assignment is: What’s the subject matter? It is best to provide, either directly or indirectly, as much information as possible on the subject. You may refer the interpreter to the event website, fax or email the agenda or the caption, or refer her to a company’s website for additional information. This will enable the interpreter to conduct preliminary research, compile her knowledge on the subject, and search for vocabulary in advance of the assignment. She may take a field-specific glossary or dictionary with her to aid in the interpretation, or she may create a glossary based on the information she has received. If the assignment is a conference, such work may take several hours or even a couple of days of preparation. Again, it is essential that the interpreter get as much information ahead of time as possible in order to provide better service.
How does court interpreting differ from conference interpreting?
Court interpreters use their skills differently than do conference interpreters. In court, the interpreter must not change the register of the language and must not add or omit anything; the interpretation must be faithful and accurate. Court interpreters must adhere to the Code of Ethical Procedures. By contrast, conference interpreters can take the liberty of summarizing what the speaker says. If the speaker makes a mistake, for example, or tells a joke that doesn't translate well, the interpreter can use professional discretion to correct the input or accommodate the speaker when speaking in the target language. In other words, the interpreter can help the speaker save face. Many conference interpreters are not court interpreters and only specialize in conferences. However, many court interpreters are also conference interpreters. These individuals can adjust their professional performance to suit the environment in which they work.
