What is a certified court interpreter in Louisiana?
The Louisiana Supreme Court distinguishes two types of court interpreters for Spanish:
Certified court interpreter (highest level);
Registered court interpreter (intermediate level).
A certified court interpreter in Louisiana has passed a three-part oral interpretation exam developed by the National Center for State Courts. This exam tests sight translation, consecutive interpretation, and simultaneous interpretation as would be used in Louisiana courtrooms; examinees must achieve a score of 70% or higher on all three parts of the exam. Additionally, a certified court interpreter has completed or passed a two-day training course, a written exam testing knowledge of the English language, and a written translation exam.
On the other hand, a registered court interpreter has completed or passed a two-day training course, a written exam testing knowledge of the English language, and a written translation exam.
In short, the essential difference between a certified and registered court interpreter in Louisiana is that a certified interpreter has passed a legal interpretation exam. A registered court interpreter has passed only written exams, and has not taken or has not achieved a passing score on an oral interpretation exam via the court system.
Both registered and certified court interpreters in Louisiana must pass a background check, complete continuing education courses, and agree to be bound by The Code of Professional Responsibility for Language Interpreters.
Louisiana has only 27 certified interpreters for Spanish (one third of whom have out-of-state addresses). There are approximately 70 individuals with registered status.
Andrew is one of five interpreters who hold both certification from Louisiana Supreme Court and federal certification from the Administrative Office of U.S. Courts. If you need a certified court interpreter for your Louisiana case, don’t hesitate to reach out.