After more than a year of lockdowns as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is starting to look like on-site interpreters are getting ready to return to work in U.S. Courts.
As a result of positive collaboration from the court system in many areas, flexible solutions have been implemented to deal with the unique challenges faced by interpreters during the COVID pandemic. For example, use of state-of-the-art language technology solutions, such as over-the-phone interpretation (OPI) and video remote interpretation (VRI), allow many interpreters to do their jobs remotely.
The Benefits of On-Site Interpreting
Remote interpretation services have been a critical aid during the COVID pandemic. These services have ensured that Limited English Proficient (LEP) communities continue to receive access to legal, medical, and other public services. While some courts may choose to continue with remote interpreting options for the time being – like the U.S. Immigration Courts, which have frequently relied on over-the-phone interpretation, even before the pandemic – many court interpreters are now being called back to work on-site.
Despite the explosion of these remote interpreting options, however, on-site interpreting still offers a number of unique benefits and advantages that cannot be replicated via a phone or video call. These advantages are particularly important and pronounced in a courtroom or other legal setting. For example, an on-site interpreter is able to read the body language of all of the parties involved. This is critical because language is not solely communicated via the voice, but also numerous subtle gestures. These types of non-verbal gestures or cues cannot be interpreted as effectively via remote interpretation technology.
Additionally, an on-site interpreter can more easily determine if a client is confused or is having difficulty in understanding the content being interpreted. By being on-site and in-person in a courtroom situation, for example, the interpreter is able to view the entire context and can pause the interpretation to explain something again or inform the judge and attorneys if the client is having difficulties.
Lastly, but certainly not least, is that there is no possibility of technical difficulties interfering with the meeting or courtroom appointment!
Translation Source’s On-Site Court Interpreting Services
Translation Source provides on-site interpreting services in the federal and state court systems, as well as numerous other types of facilities and businesses. Our on-site interpreters are getting ready to return to work in U.S. courts again, as well as other types of on-site interpreting assignments, including general legal, medical/healthcare, and more.
Of course, nothing is more important to us than the safety of our interpreters, as well as the LEP communities we serve. Therefore, before sending an interpreter to work on-site, we verify the safety protocols that are in place at the venue and provide the necessary safety information to them.
For our clients, keeping in mind the above, we are pleased to be re-launching our on-site interpretation services, although we will, of course, continue to provide over-the-phone interpretation (OPI) and video remote interpretation (VRI) services to those who prefer remote interpretation solutions.
If you would like to learn more about Translation Source’s legal and court interpretation services, please email us at info@translation-source.com or call us toll-free at (800) 413-7838.
