Profile of the professions

Conference interpreters orally restate a message received in one language in another language during speeches, meetings, conferences and debates, remaining true to the original content more than to its form. In addition to possessing all-round knowledge, interpreters must always prepare specifically for a conference, though this preparation will vary according to subject field. There are two main conference interpretation techniques: consecutive and simultaneous.

Court interpreters are specialists in oral communication who offer interpretation services in courts of justice or administrative tribunals. They provide both consecutive interpretation and simultaneous interpretation. The former, the classic mode of interpretation, offers two-way communication, for example, when a witness is being cross-examined. Simultaneous interpretation makes use of wireless electronic equipment to offer ongoing, real-time translation. This method is used for one-way communication, like when it is necessary to translate the entire proceedings.

Aptitudes of interpreters

Interpreters need good concentration, an excellent memory, a pleasant speaking voice, good diction and both mental and physical stamina. They must also be flexible and tactful. Interpretation requires a strong attention to detail and nuance, a varied personal culture and broad general knowledge.

Conference interpreters must be willing to travel because their work often takes them out of the country.

Working conditions

Independent conference interpreters are recruited as a team, with three interpreters for a normal working day at a bilingual conference, two when fewer than four hours' work is scheduled, and more for additional sessions or languages. For simultaneous interpretation, soundproof booths are used, from which the interpreters have a direct view of the speakers. Technical facilities are normally supplied by a specialized equipment company, whose sound technicians work closely with the interpreters.

Independent interpreters have an irregular work schedule, with slack periods and busy seasons. For this reason, clients should reserve as far in advance as possible. Free-lance interpreters work on the basis of individual contracts with conference organizers and are hired and remunerated on a daily basis. Travel expenses are paid in addition to the fee, where applicable.

Court interpreters usually work alone, but for lengthy proceedings, two interpreters will share the work, relieving each other at regular intervals. In the case of interpreters working in other than one of the official languages, work often continues outside the courtroom as they accompany lawyers or even investigators and other official representatives to one-on-one meetings with an accused or a witness, either in a cubicle, at the probation field office or elsewhere.

In the case of an expert witness, court interpreters will request an advance copy of the report supporting the witness’ testimony so they can conduct the necessary terminological research and obtain explanations.

Working as independent contractors, court interpreters have an irregular and often unpredictable work schedule since court proceedings are subject to judicial demands that can change unexpectedly, depending on the way the case is unfolding . While the provincial Justice Department has its own official interpretation department, municipal courts usually call on the services of specialized agencies. In both cases, interpreters work free-lance and are hired for sessions lasting a half-day or whole day, in accordance with conditions set forth in a contract with the agency or judicial body involved.

Training

Conference interpretation is taught at the master’s level at the University of Ottawa.

At the present time, no Quebec university offers a program of study devoted solely to court interpretation. However, both types of interpretation are taught in various specialized schools and universities around the world. The Order recognizes these studies according to equivalency, following study of each case.

Certified Interpreter: A reserved title

Only OTTIAQ members in good standing can practise under the title of Certified Interpreter (C. Int.). Certified Interpreters have skills recognized by the Order, which makes them professionals. For more information on the responsibilities of OTTIAQ members, see the section on Protecting the Public.

For more information on the profession itself, consult the flyer entitled Optez pour une carrière en traduction, terminologie, interprétation – Pour un futur plus-que-parfait! (PDF, in French only)

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