Erica De La Rosa appears in court nearly every day, but she never speaks for herself. As a certified court interpreter she literally speaks for others.
Legal interpreting requires very specialized education and training. Many states require a special license or certification in order for a person to interpret in court. Erica De La Rosa has such credentials. She’s a court certified Spanish interpreter for Twin Falls County 5th District Court in Idaho.
While certified court interpreters should have an understanding in the functions of U.S. and State judicial systems and in legal terms and concepts, they are not lawyers or advocates and cannot give any legal advice.
“We are not supposed to exist. You say what they say,” De La Rosa said, “no matter how shocking or strange it might be.”
According to Idaho law, courts are required to ensure access to all people including those with limited English proficiency or those who are deaf or hearing impaired. The courts meet these requirements by developing programs that improve the quality of interpretation and increase the number of qualified interpreters in the courts, according to the Idaho Supreme Court website.
“Interpreters are under oath to completely and accurately translate what is said in court to the best of their ability,” said Mary Jo Palma, the coordinator for translators in Twin Falls County and a certified Spanish interpreter.
“If an interpreter becomes aware they’ve made a mistake, they’re under obligation to correct it,” Palma said. “If an interpreter is challenged, the judge will rule accordingly.”
