The demand for interpreters in the United States is expected to increase by 19% through 2028. It means that now it is the perfect time to start your career or hone your skills. And one of the best ways to qualify is to specialize in one or more fields. However, the medical and legal interpreting fields have a number of requirements that you may need to meet.
We’ll delve into legal interpretation to cover the education, training, and credentials needed to succeed in the field.
Education and Training for Legal Interpreters
Courts and other employers often require legal interpreters to hold a bachelor’s degree. Some legal interpreters have degrees in foreign languages, translation studies, or legal studies, but you can get into the field even if you’ve studied another subject.
Many colleges and universities in the United States offer interpreting certificates, which require a set number of hours of training to complete. (These programs are different from state certifications).
You can also enroll in training programs and workshops offered by state courts, local and national interpreting organizations.
If you want to become a court interpreter, you will need to train to perform the three main types of court interpreting: spot translation, consecutive interpreting, and simultaneous interpreting.
Accreditation of court interpreters
There are two types of court interpreting certifications: state and federal. Here’s a quick overview of the requirements for each.
State Court Interpreter Certification
While requirements vary from state to state, you will need to pass a written and oral test in both English and a foreign language. State courts offer these exams. Many states also accredit certification through the Consortium for Access to Language in Courts, as well as the National Association of Court Interpreters and Translators.
However, certification exams are not available for all languages. If your state does not offer certification for your language, you may qualify to become a registered court interpreter.
Federal Court Interpreter Certification
Becoming a federal court interpreter is a challenging yet rewarding process that can open the door to new opportunities. But here’s the catch: the certification is only available for Spanish, Haitian Creole, and Navajo. If you speak one of these languages, you will need to take a written exam and an oral exam separately.
If you don’t speak one of these languages, you can become a professionally qualified interpreter. In order to do this, you will need:
Pass the US Department of State conference or seminar interpreter test.
Pass the United Nations interpreter test.
And be a member in good standing of the International Association of Trusted Interpreters (AIIC) or the American Association of Language Specialists (TAALS).
Preparing for the future
When you’re ready to take the state or federal interpreting certification exam, there are lots of resources to help you get ready. The National Center for State Courts’ self-assessment and study tools are an excellent starting point.
And if you’re already a legal interpreter, check out Boostlingo’s interpreting platform. You can manage your schedule on-site, receive on-demand phone requests, and more.