BEI Court Interpreting Procedures & Legal Settings Flashcards

In a US courtroom, where should a court interpreter typically be positioned during witness testimony?

Answer: Seated next to or slightly behind the witness

The interpreter should be positioned next to or slightly behind the witness to facilitate direct communication while remaining unobtrusive.

When a BEI-certified court interpreter encounters an unfamiliar legal term during a proceeding, what is the correct action?

Answer: Ask the judge to clarify the term on the record

The interpreter should ask the judge to clarify the term on the record to ensure accurate interpretation without disrupting proceedings inappropriately.

Which mode of interpretation is most commonly used for witness testimony in US courts?

Answer: Consecutive interpretation

Consecutive interpretation is standard for witness testimony because it allows complete question-and-answer exchange with full accuracy and on-the-record documentation.

What does 'sight translation' mean in the context of US court interpreting?

Answer: Orally translating a written document in real time

Sight translation refers to reading a written document and orally rendering it into the target language in real time, commonly used for documents like jury instructions.

Under the Court Interpreters Act, which types of US federal proceedings require a certified or otherwise qualified interpreter for a non-English-speaking defendant?

Answer: Any proceeding initiated by the United States

The Court Interpreters Act requires certified or qualified interpreters in any judicial or quasi-judicial proceeding instituted by the United States.

Which ethical obligation requires a court interpreter to inform the court if they are unable to hear clearly during a proceeding?

Answer: Accuracy

The duty of accuracy requires interpreters to ensure every word is heard and rendered correctly, which means alerting the court to any audibility issues.