This virtual workshop is offered FREE of charge to MATI members and to interpreters of languages of lesser diffusion who practice in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana. Non-members are also welcome to register for a fee or become a MATI member to enjoy this membership benefit!

Virtual Workshop: Saturday, March 21, 8:30–10:30 a.m. CDT

This virtual workshop will be held via Zoom. Registrants will receive a Zoom link in the emailed registration confirmation.

Session Overview

This virtual workshop will guide you on how to quickly identify the type of call you are interpreting for—a community service call or a potential criminal case. It will demonstrate how artificial intelligence in this type of setting is counterproductive.

Continuing Education Credits

This virtual workshop is approved for 2 Wisconsin court CEUs.

Description

Discuss approaches for when our intervention is needed to expedite communication without taking over the call. Learn to be transparent and conduct a quick pre-session or introduction at the right time, setting the ground rules for interpreting for both the law enforcement team and the limited English proficient (LEP) person. Understand how to be mindful of the state of mind and condition of the LEP person (e.g., panicky, intoxicated, etc.) while trying to remain unbiased with the parties.

Furthermore, learn how to recuse yourself from a call when you are unable to keep up with the content or because of a lack of credentials. Begin to develop your own language reference materials to help you interpret accurately, such as translations and glossaries. Common law enforcement forms will also be discussed, such as forms related to traffic and crime.

Virtual Workshop Learning Objectives

Attendees will:

• Identify the setting of the call: adversarial versus collaborative.
• Identify the role of the interpreter to be applied to the call.
• Manage communication flow without overstepping boundaries.
• Remain calm and confident in your language skills in this setting.
• Expand and summarize information without altering the tone, intent, or register of the information due to the urgency of the communication.

Presenter: Saul Arteaga