Interpreter Certification Program

Court interpreters are a vital tool in fulfilling the Judiciary's obligation to guarantee the rights of persons with limited English proficiency and those who are deaf or hard of hearing.

"Due process is a core value of the American judicial system, ensuring that every litigant and criminal defendant receives a fair hearing that is based on the merits of his or her case and presided over by an impartial judge. No one should be put at a disadvantage in court by reason of race, ethnicity, or gender. The basic fairness of the Pennsylvania court system is jeopardized if litigants with limited English proficiency (LEP) are unable to have access to competent interpreters and other language assistance."

- Final Report of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, Committee on Racial and Gender Bias in the Justice System, March 2003

Become an Interpreter

The Interpreter Certification Program was established to provide trained and qualified spoken language and sign language interpreters for the courts of Pennsylvania. A statewide roster of qualified and certified spoken language and sign language interpreters helps each judicial district implement effective interpreter services. The program works with judges, administrators and the legal community to promote awareness of interpreter issues including training, testing, skills and the role of interpreters. For an overview of the need, requirements and qualifications, download the Become an Interpreter brochure. Read about the required Knowledge and Skills and take the Self Assessment Quiz.To learn more about the necessary qualifications and a step by step guide on how to become an interpreter, see the information below. 

Request an Interpreter

To request an interpreter, contact the Language Access Coordinator for your judicial district.