Beyond the Standards: Legal Series for New England Courtroom Interpreters
 

November 9-11, 2007
January 25-27, 2008                     at the Suffolk University School of Law
March 28-30, 2008                        Boston, MA       
May 30-June 1, 2008                                   

Friday 9-5pm
Saturday 9-5pm
Sunday 9-2pm

Presenters/Facilitators: Carla Mathers, Betty Colonomos and Jan DeLap

Sponsored by the New England Chapters of RID

This series is designed as a highly advanced and interactive
opportunity to build teams across the New England states. The first
three sessions will look at various aspects of trial work and the
difficulties interpreters encounter; through expert testimony, Deaf
witness interviews and other difficult scenarios. The final series
will include both a civil and criminal trial.

All participants should come ready to work. There will be role-
plays depicting various court proceedings and opportunity for
discussion on improving the work done not only at this series but in
our own communities. Throughout the series, and emphasized in the
first weekend, participants will look at an attorney's view on
interpreting, what an expert witness does when reviewing an
interpreters work and what we as interpreters need to think about
knowing our work could be challenged. Equally we will look at the
Deaf perspective and what interpreters need to consider in providing
a culturally competent interpretation.

Space for participants will be limited in order to provide everyone
with the opportunity to work and participate. Individuals not
meeting the requirements below are welcome to attend as observers to
increase the pool of interpreters ready in the future. The series is
designed specifically for consistency and team building.

Participant slots are open to those interpreters trained and
experienced in trial work; this must include experience in
proceedings interpreting, working with CDI's and Deaf witness
testimony. Experience with table interpreting and/or training in
table interpreting is preferred. Please submit a letter of
experience, training and certification along with your registration
form.

Observer slots are not limited to interpreters only. Either
interpreters with minimal courtroom training or other interested
parties (attorneys, referral staff, interpreter supervisors, etc.)
may apply. However, preference will be given to those interpreters
who have some legal training but need additional experience to be
prepared for trial. Observers are strongly advised to include prior
legal training for prioritization of attendance. Break-out groups
and work sessions will be designed specifically for observers
benefit.

Registration is on a first come, first serve basis. Attendance at
all sessions is required. There will be a total of 35 participant slots available.

To register or find out more information, contact Denise Martinez at nise70@verizon.net or 603-828-7307.