Learn How to Become a Court Interpreter in Colorado

Becoming a court interpreter in Colorado involves meeting the requirements set by the Colorado Judicial Department’s Court Interpreter Program. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

🌟 1. Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old.
Must have legal authorization to work in the U.S..
Must demonstrate high proficiency in both English and the target language.

More information: Colorado Court Interpreter Program

🏛️ 2. Complete the Court Interpreter Orientation

Attend a mandatory orientation conducted by the Colorado Judicial Department.
The orientation covers:
- The role of court interpreters.
- The Colorado Judicial System.
- Ethical standards based on the Colorado Code of Professional Responsibility for Court Interpreters.
- The three modes of interpretation:
  - Simultaneous.
  - Consecutive.
  - Sight translation.

Orientation schedule: Orientation Information

✏️ 3. Pass the Written Exam

The written exam assesses:
- English proficiency.
- Knowledge of court-related terminology.
- Understanding of ethics and professional conduct.
A minimum passing score of 80% is required.

Testing details: Testing Information

Free Training: Go Here

🎤 4. Pass the Oral Proficiency Exam (for Certified Languages)

The oral proficiency exam evaluates your skills in:

Simultaneous interpretation.
Consecutive interpretation.
Sight translation.

Certified Languages in Colorado include:

Spanish, Vietnamese, Mandarin, Cantonese, Russian, Korean, and Arabic.

For languages without a certification exam, interpreters can become "Registered Interpreters" after passing a language proficiency test.

Details on oral exams: Certification Exam Info

Free and premium training materials: Go Here.

🛂 5. Pass a Background Check

Submit to a criminal background check.
Provide all required documentation to the Colorado Judicial Department.

⚖️ 6. Complete the Ethics Training and Take the Interpreter’s Oath

Complete a mandatory ethics training.
Study and adhere to the Colorado Code of Professional Responsibility for Court Interpreters.
Take the Interpreter’s Oath, affirming your commitment to impartiality, confidentiality, and professional integrity.

Ethics resources: Colorado Court Interpreter Code of Conduct

🔁 7. Maintain Certification and Continuing Education

Complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years.
Stay updated on legal terminology, court procedures, and best practices.

Continuing education information: Continuing Education Requirements