Information on how to become a Court certified Interpreter or upcoming written and oral examinations can be found on the Judicial Court of California’s "Become an Interpreter" webpage found HERE.
Definition
Under general supervision, performs a wide variety of language interpretation activities on an assigned and as-needed basis for the Superior Courts of California and for parties to proceedings, including witnesses, defendants, attorneys, other court personnel and the public.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Performs consecutive and simultaneous interpretation of courtroom proceedings and other related interpreting services as needed. In addition, performs sight translation (orally interpreting written text) as needed.
Duties may include, but are not limited to the following:
1. Interprets from and into English and the applicable non-English language using simultaneous and consecutive modes at Court proceedings and for other court-related services at the direction of the court.
2. Performs sight translation of documents including, but not limited to, court petitions, reports, waivers, plea forms, letters and other documents.
3. Interprets for judges, attorneys, court staff, the public and other court-related departments at the direction of the court.
4. Notifies the court of any issues or situations that may impede the interpreters’ performance.
5. Researches and understands terminology used in court and functions of the court which may include but not be limited to legal, technological, scientific and/or medical terminology.
6. Reviews the daily docket and receives daily calendar assignments from the Operations Manager or Court Services Coordinator and accurately completes daily activity logs, or other documentation as required.
7. May be required to perform services at any court location and can opt to be cross-assigned to other courts when released to do so.
8. Performs related interpreter duties as assigned.
Possession of a valid certificate as a Certified Court Interpreter issued by the Judicial Council of California on behalf of the State of California, or registered as a Court Interpreter by the Judicial Council of California on behalf of the State of California.
Knowledge of:
Correct usage of English grammar and vocabulary in English and the applicable non-English language; simultaneous interpretation, consecutive interpretation and sight translation; legal concepts and forensic terminology in both English and applicable non-English language; regional and cultural variations in the applicable language; interpreter ethics and standards, in accordance with California Rules of Court, Rule 2.890 Professional Conduct for Interpreters and the Standards and Ethics for California Court Interpreters.
Ability to:
Communicate clearly and effectively verbally and in writing; orally convey meaning from and into English and the applicable non-English language by interpreting in the simultaneous, consecutive and sight translation modes; convey meaning accurately and completely, without editing, summarizing, embellishing, or omitting; correctly use grammar and vocabulary of English and specified non-English language, provided the source language speaker is using correct vocabulary and grammar; interpret accurately and remain impartial including in adversarial and emotionally charged situations; carry out duties in accordance with policies, procedures and scope of responsibility; understand and follow written and oral instructions; understand and adhere to California statutes, Rules of Court, and Court Personnel Policies; maintain confidentiality of Court documents and records; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted during the course of the work; use office equipment, including computer, telephone and copiers; use transmitter and receiver equipment provided by the Court for simultaneous interpretation; use laptop provided by the Court for remote interpretation; conduct ongoing research in variations in terminology and usage of the applicable language; interact professionally and cooperatively with those contacted in the course of work.
Typical Physical Requirements
Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; lift and move objects weighing up to 25 lbs.; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and fax.
Typical Working Conditions
Work is performed in an office, courtroom, or other court related facilities; continuous contact with other staff and the public. Travel throughout the County may be required.
Other Requirements
Must be able to pass a criminal history information background check.
Possession of a valid Class “C” Driver’s License, or the equivalent, or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions.
