About The Legal Interpretapes

The University of Arizona National Center for Interpretation is pleased to present INTERPRETAPES©, Volumes I, II, and III.

INTERPRETAPES© are Spanish-English practice materials developed to provide individuals an opportunity to enhance their court interpreting skills and have language laboratory-type practice with basic home equipment (a CD player).

Volume I is an introductory set that includes six lessons providing practice in both simultaneous and consecutive interpreting as well as in sight translation.  Texts for simultaneous interpretation are recorded at two speeds to allow users to improve their interpreting skills and techniques. 

Volume II is dedicated to expert testimony, and offers six texts for simultaneous interpretation practice and two written texts for sight translation. Topics covered include DNA fingerprinting, serology, hair analysis, firearms, sign cutting, police reporting, and tax documentation. 

Volume III is dedicated to the formulaic “boilerplate” language of the courts.  The exercises for practice in simultaneous interpreting include initial appearances and arraignments,  plea agreement hearings, sentencings and jury instructions. Attorney/client interviews and  complaints are covered in the consecutive mode and sight translation exercises.

Each volume consists of a source CD and a master key CD.  The key CD contains interpreted renditions of all of the practice exercises done by federally certified court interpreters. Additional study aids include both a spoken glossary on the source CD and a printed glossary for reference purposes.  Scripts of the texts and suggestions for appropriate use of all of the materials are also provided.  Individuals interested in developing their interpreting skills or in preparing for state and federal written and/or oral examinations will find INTERPRETAPES© beneficial.