For interpreters

How to get certified

Step 1: Two-day orientation

To begin the certification process all interpreter candidates must first attend orientation training. This two-day training is a 14-hour introductory workshop covering the fundamentals of court interpretation. It is designed to give participants an overview of the needs and expectations of the court, with emphasis on ethical conduct, legal terminology, court procedure, and basic legal interpreting skills. The training also includes small group practice exercises to develop interpreter skills. Faculty consists of judges, court commissioners, attorneys, and certified or qualified court interpreters.

In 2013, three orientations will be offered around the state. Interested candidates should send an application form along with the fee of $175 to our office in order to register as walk-ins are not allowed. The application form and fee must be received by the appropriate deadline. Upon receipt of the application and payment, a confirmation letter with logistical information will be sent prior to the start of orientation.

ASL interpreters who wish to have their credentials recognized by the Director's office must complete the two-day orientation. To be eligible to attend orientation, sign interpreters must hold at least a Certificate of Interpretation (CI) and Certificate of Transliteration (CT) or National Interpreter Certification (NIC) from the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) and be licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). Orientation is pre-approved for continuing education credits from the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID). ASL interpreters are waived from all written and oral testing requirements but must meet other programmatic requirements.

Scholarships for speakers of certain refugee languages may be available in 2013. See a listing of all languages in which scholarships may be available Adobe PDF. Individuals should contact our office to confirm availability:

Office of Court Operations
110 East Main Street Suite 410
Madison, WI 53705
Phone: (608) 266-8635

2013 orientation dates

2013 announcement and orientation application MS Word

2013 sample orientation agenda Adobe PDF

Map of judicial administrative districts

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