What to Expect
The interpreter should be expected to provide competent simultaneous and consecutive interpreting and sight translation of documents. The interpreter should be familiar with the code of ethics for interpreters in your district, or if there is none, with the NAJIT Code of Ethics, and should be bound by those canons. The interpreter should arrive punctually with the necessary equipment and/or reference materials in hand, be as unobtrusive as possible, and discuss beforehand with you all questions of logistics, best placement in the courtroom, rest periods that may be needed, and so on. The interpreter should also make known any case materials she will need to be provided in order to work efficiently and accurately. Interpreters should NOT be expected to: run errands; speak to parties without their attorney being present; “explain” things to parties; help people fill out forms; interpret tape-recorded material extemporaneously during a proceeding; give opinions about what other people understand or do not understand, or give any opinion about the abilities or statements of others.
Source: NAJIT.ORG
