Where legal interpreters are used
Legal interpreters can support examinations, arbitrations, mediations, lawyer-client meetings, witness preparation, tribunal matters, settlement discussions and other proceedings. The interpreter role should be defined clearly so everyone understands whether the assignment is simultaneous, consecutive, remote or in person.
Technical knowledge can change the assignment
A matter involving ordinary conversation differs from one involving medical causation, engineering evidence, accounting records or complex legal procedure. The more specialized the testimony or discussion, the more important it is to identify the subject matter before selecting an interpreter.
Preparation improves accuracy
Where permitted, names, glossaries, pleadings, expert reports, chronologies or other non-privileged reference material can help an interpreter prepare terminology before the assignment. Any confidentiality or access restrictions should be identified when booking.
One provider for interpreting and documents
A legal matter can require both spoken interpreting and written translation. Court records, transcripts, exhibits, expert reports, correspondence and foreign-language evidence can be scoped alongside the interpreting assignment when useful.
What to send when requesting availability or a quote
Send the matter type, language pair, date and time, estimated duration, location or remote platform, subject-matter complexity and the organization retaining the interpreter. Include any qualification, security, confidentiality or conflict requirements.
Questions about legal interpreting
What is the difference between translation and interpreting?
Translation deals with written material. Interpreting deals with spoken or signed communication in real time or near real time.
Can a legal interpreter attend a mediation or arbitration?
Yes, subject to the proceeding rules and the qualifications required by the parties or neutral.
Can the same provider translate the documents too?
Yes. Written files can be scoped separately from the live interpreting assignment.
Do you handle law-firm bookings?
The service is structured for law firms, legal teams, courts, tribunals, corporations and other organizations as well as individual matters.