How to become a court certified interpreter in California

Step 1: Researching Chinese or other foreign language Certified Court Interpreter’s Career Duties and Education

Certified Court Interpreters are essential to Civil and Criminal court proceedings involving non-English speakers in California. They work in courtroom trials, attorney-client meetings, preliminary hearings, depositions and arraignments. They must be familiar with legal terminology in both languages as well as skills in consecutive, sight and simultaneous interpreting.

Step 2: Obtain a Degree to Become a Chinese or other foreign language Certified Court Interpreter

A Certified Court Interpreter does not need a specific degree.  It’s important that prospective Court Interpreters take courses in the law and the judicial system. These courses should provide familiarity with criminal proceedings and interpreter’s code of ethics

Step 3: Become a Fluent Chinese or other foreign language Translator

To be a Certified Court Interpreter, one must be fluent in one or more foreign languages and capable of simultaneous translation. This can be achieved through interpreter programs such as the one year certificate program in LA Institute of Translation and Interpretation.

Step 4: Prepare to Become a Certified Court Interpreter

Becoming a Chinese or other foreign language Certified Court Interpreter requires some years of experience, which can often be gained by working for a translation company such as LA Institute of Translation and Interpretation. Because Court Interpreter positions are scarce, many Court Interpreters take internships or do volunteer work for community organizations. It is a good idea to become a medical certified interpreter which is an easier job than court and acquire experience to become court certified.

Step 5: Become a Chinese or other foreign language Certified Court Interpreter

Translators can become certified by the American Translators Association, although employers may not require it. There is high demand for Court Interpreters fluent in Portuguese, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Arabic and other Middle Eastern languages, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and American Sign Language.