This course is designed for court interpreters who work in juvenile dependency hearings. It offers a detailed look at the legal process involving cases of child abuse, neglect, and family separation. Interpreters will gain a strong understanding of courtroom procedures, legal terminology specific to dependency hearings, and the cultural and emotional sensitivity required when interpreting for families during these difficult cases.

Through case examples, roleplay scenarios, and terminology drills, this course will strengthen interpreters’ skills in accuracy, impartiality, and ethical decision-making while working with limited-English-proficient families.  

Learning Objectives: Interpreters will learn when to use Simultaneous Interpretation vs Consecutive Interpretation in dependency hearings. Interpreters will learn about the legal process involved in dependency hearings and what terminology and acronyms are used. Interpreters will also see how to apply the court interpreter’s ethical code while dealing with the emotions of parents, children, and those involved. This course will help you to:

• Understand the structure and purpose of dependency hearings

• Learn common legal terms and court roles

• Practice interpreting techniques for emotionally sensitive testimony

• Apply the interpreter code of ethics in child welfare cases

CE Units: 4.0 | Format: On-Demand Video & Quiz | Language Focus: Language Neutral | Level: Intermediate