In today’s globalized world, legal proceedings often involve parties who speak different languages. Whether it’s a deposition, trial, or mediation, having a skilled court interpreter is crucial for ensuring effective communication and a fair process. Here are some tips for working with remote court interpreters:
**Preparation is Key**:
– **Share Materials in Advance**: Provide any relevant documents, exhibits, or case files to the interpreter beforehand. This allows them to familiarize themselves with the context and terminology. Provide the materials well in advance to leave enough time for the interpreter to study the topic and get back to you with questions if needed.
– **Brief the Interpreter**: Schedule a pre-session briefing to discuss case specifics, potential challenges, and any sensitive topics. Clarify the interpreter’s role. The interpreter should confirm that they will abide by the rules of their trade, such as confidentiality.
**Technical Setup**:
– **Test Technology**: Ensure that all parties (attorneys, clients, and interpreters) have tested their audio and video equipment. A stable internet connection is essential.
– **Choose the Right Platform**: Use a reliable video conferencing platform that supports interpretation features. Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and WebEx are popular choices.
**During the Session**:
– **Speak Clearly and Slowly**: Enunciate your words and avoid speaking too fast. Pause after each sentence to allow the interpreter to convey the message accurately.
– **Use Short Segments**: Rephrase long, complex sentences into shorter sentences. This helps maintain accuracy and prevents information overload. Avoid pausing in the middle of a sentence, because some languages need to hear the whole sentence before they can start interpreting (this is especially true for verb-final languages like Japanese and German).
– **Avoid Side Conversations**: Remind all participants to refrain from side conversations while the Interpreter is interpreting.
– **The Challenge: it takes a lot of discipline to stop and wait for the interpretation. Unlike in-person Court interpretation where simultaneous (or chuchotage/whispering) mode of interpretation is used along with the consecutive and Sight translation, only the consecutive mode of interpretation is used over the phone or on video remote interpreting.
**Cultural Sensitivity**:
– **Be Culturally Aware**: Understand that interpreters may come from different cultural backgrounds. Respect their expertise and cultural nuances. For example, the length of a sentence is not always the same in each language. Sometimes the interpreter will need to speak for longer, or shorter, to convey your message in the other language.
** Use Plain Language**
What is plain language?
Plain Language per the NCSC, National Center for State Courts
Plain language is clear, direct writing that can be understood by all.
Courts have a duty to communicate clearly and effectively with court users. Simplicity, clarity, and transparency are essential to promoting public trust and confidence in the judiciary. Understandable court forms, orders and other materials help the public use courts effectively and enhance access to justice.
-Using Plain Language can result in better outcome for all parties in addition to all the benefit mentioned above **
– **Avoid Jargon and Idioms**: Simplify legal jargon and avoid idiomatic expressions or local cultural references. These can be challenging to interpret accurately.
**Post-Session Feedback**: