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Article published In:
Target
Vol. 28:3 (2016) ► pp.351–371

“We’re just kind of there”

Working conditions and perceptions of appreciation and status in court interpreting

| University of New South Wales
| Heriot-Watt University

In considering the challenges for court interpreters, much of the previous research has concentrated on the linguistic aspects of the interpreting process. This paper explores the issue from the perspective of working conditions and professional status. One hundred and ninety-four practicing court interpreters in Australia were surveyed about their experience with working conditions, court protocols and professional status, as well as their opinions about what affects the quality of their work and what improvements may be necessary. The findings of this study give a picture of the reality of court interpreting practice, as compared to the ideal, and generate recommendations for the training of interpreters to work in court, the education of legal personnel on how to work with interpreters in court, and practical suggestions regarding the provision of court interpreting to ensure high quality services.

Keywords: court interpreting, working conditions, court protocols, professional status, quality of interpreting
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.The study
    • 2.1Questionnaire instrument
    • 2.2Procedure
    • 2.3The sample
  • 3.Results and discussion
    • 3.1Interpreter protocols
      • 3.1.1Interpreter introductions
      • 3.1.2Explaining the interpreter’s role
    • 3.2Awareness of professional and physical needs to aid interpreters with their work
      • 3.2.1Interpreter positioning
      • 3.2.2Resources and equipment
    • 3.3Respected as professionals
  • 4.Conclusions
  • Acknowledgements
  • Notes
  • References
Published online: 29 September 2016
DOI logo
https://doi.org/10.1075/target.28.3.01hal
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