Court interpreting is one of the most specialized disciplines in interpreting services.
In a courtroom, every word carries weight and requires an interpreter who is linguistically strong, experienced and able to keep a cool head under pressure.
At OnLine Translation, Diane and Erik are responsible for selecting court interpreters for courts, law firms and public authorities.
They don’t work as interpreters themselves, but have a thorough understanding of what the role requires – and how to secure the best interpreter for each case.
1. The language of law requires a special precision
Legal language is very different from everyday language.
A single word can change the meaning of a statement, which is why court interpreting requires a much deeper understanding of terminology and linguistic nuances than many other interpreting tasks.
As Erik says:
“Legal language is what separates legal interpretation from all other interpretation. A small mistake can change the meaning of a testimony or an interrogation.”
A court interpreter must therefore not only translate, but also understand the context and communicate accurately, neutrally and without interpretation.
2. The emotional aspects of litigation
Trials can be very difficult to witness.
Cases of violence, murder, abuse and children affect everyone in the room, and interpreters are no exception.
Diane says it’s important for them to select interpreters who are both mentally robust and used to working under emotional pressure.
The interpreter must be able to listen to difficult and sometimes violent content without letting it affect accuracy. This requires energy and experience – which is one of the reasons why court interpreting is not for everyone.
3. the courtroom is rarely a neutral environment
Although a court case is a structured process, situations can develop quickly. Sometimes individuals in the courtroom can be aggressive or threatening, which can create a tense working environment for the interpreter.
Erik explains:
“We know from interpreters that there can sometimes be people in the courtroom who appear threatening. Fortunately, the judge often steps in and sets a clear limit to the behavior .”
But the interpreter must still be able to stay focused – regardless of what’s going on around them.
4. Long experience is a necessity
At OnLine Translation, we only work with interpreters who have extensive litigation experience. Many of them have participated in 100 to 150 cases – some even more.
Experience means that the interpreter knows the court processes and the situations that may arise. This knowledge not only makes the interpreting more confident, but also puts the entire courtroom at ease.
Interpreters are typically given information about the subject matter in advance so they can prepare both terminologically and mentally.
5. Neutrality is the cornerstone of good legal interpretation
Neutrality is non-negotiable. A court interpreter should never express sympathy or antipathy, nor should they make small talk with either party during breaks. Even small, innocent actions can cast doubt on the interpreter’s objectivity – and that can be detrimental to the entire case.
Diane explains:
“Neutrality is a requirement. The interpreter must not make small talk, build relationships or be influenced by sympathy or antipathy .”
It’s not about distance for distance’s sake – it’s about ensuring fairness.
6. Agency responsibility for quality and safety
At OnLine Translation, we take our responsibility seriously.
It’s not just about sending an interpreter out on an assignment, but about ensuring the right match between case and interpreter.
Diane and Erik assess both professional and personal skills and choose interpreters who are equipped for the challenges of each case.
Selection is an important part of quality in legal interpretation.
When the right people are on the right cases, both the process and the outcome are better.
7. Legal interpretation strengthens legal certainty
When communication works, cases are more informed, errors are reduced and all parties are treated more fairly.
That’s why court interpreting is not just a service, but an important part of the legal system.
Good legal interpretation creates clarity, certainty and justice – and that’s exactly what Diane and Erik work for every day.
Read more about legal interpretation
Contact us to hear more at +45 76 33 9000 or contact us online@online-translation.dk