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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The OJD does not provide any training on how to interpret; the training that is provided is mainly for continuing education for already credentialed interpreters.​

Please send Court Language Access Services an email to Court.Interpreter.Program@ojd.state.or.us with your complete name, mailing address, any other pertinent email addresses and phone number(s), as well as what languages you speak, so that we can send you the appropriate information.​​ ​

No. Certified court interpreters are highly skilled professionals who are able to perform well in the three modes of interpretation: simultaneous, consecutive, and sight. A court interpreter must have knowledge of court procedures, protocols and apply ethical standards required by the “Code of Professional Responsibility for Interpreters in the Oregon Courts.”​

As officers of the court and in accordance with the Code of Professional Responsibility (CPR) interpreters are expected to dress in a manner consistent with the dignity of the court. Appropriate attire includes dresses, skirts, suits, slacks, button-up shirts, jackets, and ties. Appropriate attire may also include clothing worn for formal occasions in your country or culture, for example, wedding and formal church attire. Please avoid ostentatious or extravagant attire. Anything above the knee, short sleeves or sleeveless attire, flip-flops or crocs, or loud colors or jeans are not appropriate for the courtroom. When in doubt, take into consideration the standard of the court you are working in, and err on the conservative side if you are not familiar with that court. Always use your professional judgement and consult a colleague if necessary.
 
 
 

An Oregon Certified Interpreter has achieved appropriate examination scores on a court interpreting exam and has fulfilled other requirements established by the State Court Administrator according to ORS 45.291. Interpreters who do not hold the Oregon Certified Court Interpreting Credential have not had their interpreting skills formally tested. 

While demand depends on the language, there isn't enough demand to make court interpreting full-time work for any language (Spanish might be the exception). However, we strongly encourage you to supplement your court interpreting with other types of interpreting, such as attorney office visits, depositions, medical interpreting and school interpreting. Not only do these assignments provide additional income, but they give you practice and experience in interpreting.​​

OJD Certified Spoken Language Court Interpreter: $57/hour
OJD Certified ASL Court Interpreter: $74/hour
OJD Registered Court Interpreter: $42/hour​
Non-Certified Interpreter (must be authorized): $34/hour
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