Cold Weather, Heavy Cases: Interpreting a Probation Violation Hearing Remotely

This week in Minnesota, temperatures dropped to –22°C with heavy snowfall, yet court proceedings continued as scheduled. I had the opportunity to provide remote court interpreting for a probation violation hearing, highlighting how virtual courtrooms allow access to justice even in extreme weather conditions.

The assignment began with a confidential attorney-client meeting between the public defender and the defendant. During this discussion, the defendant considered whether to contest the probation violation or enter a guilty plea, as well as whether to waive the right to a contested hearing. As a court interpreter, accuracy and neutrality during these private consultations are critical.

The defendant ultimately pled guilty and was sentenced to jail time at the workhouse. One of the main interpreting challenges during the hearing involved sentencing calculations, including jail credit for time already served. Interpreting numbers, dates, and time calculations in real time requires precision, strong note-taking skills, and full command of legal terminology.

This case also involved immigration consequences. Because the defendant is not a U.S. citizen, they had previously been detained by ICE and are currently in removal proceedings. Interpreting cases where criminal law intersects with immigration law can feel surreal, situations often seen only in the news become very real in the courtroom.

From a professional growth standpoint, this assignment reinforced the value of daily interpreter training. My court interpreting felt smoother and more controlled, thanks to consistent practice and ongoing study of legal vocabulary using flashcards. I was able to write down and recall information more quickly, even under pressure. This experience confirmed what many interpreters know to be true: repetition leads to mastery.

Remote proceedings, complex legal language, and real-life consequences make court interpreting both challenging and deeply meaningful work.

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