Self-Test for Persons Thinking About Becoming Court Interpreters

Besides possessing strong language and analytical skills, the profession of court interpreting requires advance training and a commitment to continued learning throughout the years. Even with the appropriate skills and training, certain people might find it too difficult to comply with aspects of the interpreters’ Code of Professional Conduct, or to cope with the work conditions interpreters experience in real life.

To guide you in your decision, answer the following questions to yourself honestly. If you find yourself responding mostly “no” you might want to do more research in the field before making a final decision. You should also:

• Carefully study the Code of Professional Conduct for Court Interpreters of the Trial Court.
• Visit the Web Site of the National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators and review their articles and general information.
• Observe interpreters at work in court.

Considerations for persons interested in becoming court interpreters*

• Do I communicate fluently in English and in the other target language?
• Can I communicate at a very formal (academic; professional) level as well as at a more informal (using colloquialisms, street talk, etc.) level in both languages?
• Am I committed to studying and expanding my vocabulary in both languages, including having good bilingual dictionaries at hand?
• Am I committed to studying the language and contents of the American legal process, law enforcement, and any other areas I get assigned to interpret for?
• Will I be able to interact with interpreter colleagues effectively, sharing information and consulting for my own learning as well as theirs?
• Will I be able to accept feedback, corrections and/or suggestions regarding the quality of my work from colleagues or other qualified individuals?
• Do I have a good memory?
• Do I have the ability to speak clearly and loudly in public settings if necessary?
• Does working in a highly conservative environment—I. e: roles, dress code-- make me feel uncomfortable?
• Does sitting in a courtroom, addressing a judge, or being around guards in uniform make me uncomfortable or intimidate me?
• Does the idea of sitting or standing next to convicted criminals or criminal defendants in court make me feel uncomfortable or scared?
• Would you object to interpreting in the lock-up area in court for defendants who are being held?
• Do I have any moral impediment regarding interpreting for someone charged or convicted of a heinous crime?
• Can I think and act calmly during emotionally or intellectually stressful situations?
• Is it very difficult or even unacceptable for me to remain silent when I observe something that bothers me ethically or emotionally?
• Would I be able to control the urge to advocate for people I feel have been wronged while I am serving officially as court interpreter?
• Would it be possible for me to avoid the urge to respond when people seek my opinion on their matter?
• Will I be able to maintain absolute impartiality so that I could assist, if necessary, the defense and the prosecuting attorneys in the same case?
• Will I be able to set and honor boundaries while interpreting, explaining to all participants that I cannot add my own opinions or feelings into the process?
• Can I refrain from judging people whose notions of family totally differ from mine? For instance, in terms of marriage, divorce, disciplining of children, etc.?
• Am I good at managing my own finances, for instance, of keeping accurate records of my bills and expenses?
• Would I have a problem with last-minute changes in my assignments from day to day?

*For each question, consider and answer "Yes," "Maybe," or "No."

Date published:	August 27, 2017
Last updated:	October 30, 2025