The Challenges of Virtual Hearings with Interpreters and Why Consecutive Interpretation Is More Effective

Virtual court hearings have become a common practice, especially since the rise of remote work and social distancing measures. While platforms such as Zoom, for instance, offer convenience, they also introduce unique challenges for interpreters and the courtroom as a whole. One of the most pressing issues is how interpretation is handled during these hearings. Simultaneous interpretation, often preferred in in-person settings, can become complicated online. This post explores the difficulties interpreters face during virtual hearings and explains why consecutive interpretation is often a more reliable and effective choice.

Difficulties Hearing While Interpreting Virtually

Interpreters rely heavily on clear audio to provide accurate and timely interpretations. In a physical courtroom, we can hear the speaker directly and/or use specialized equipment designed to support simultaneous interpretation. On virtual settings, however, several factors interfere with this process:

• Audio delays and lag: Even minor delays can cause interpreters to miss parts of the speech or overlap with the speaker’s voice, leading to confusion.

  
  

• Background noise and poor sound quality: Participants may join from different locations with varying audio setups, creating inconsistent sound levels and distractions.

  
  

• Limited control over audio channels: Unlike in-person hearings where interpreters can use separate audio channels, virtual platforms often mixes all voices into one channel, making it hard to isolate the speaker.

  
  

These issues make it difficult for interpreters to listen and translate at the same time without losing accuracy or missing critical information.

Why Simultaneous Interpretation Struggles in Virtual Hearings

Simultaneous interpretation requires interpreters to listen and speak almost at the same time, which demands intense concentration and perfect audio conditions. On virtual platforms, the technology does not always support this well:

• Lack of dedicated interpretation channels: although some virtual platforms may offer an interpretation feature, it is not always enabled or used correctly in court settings.

  
  

• Technical glitches: Connection drops, microphone feedback, or echo can disrupt the flow of interpretation.

  
  

• Cognitive overload: Interpreters must juggle multiple tasks—listening, processing, and speaking—while managing technical issues, which increases the risk of errors.

  
  

• Clarity: In a virtual setting, when interpreters provide simultaneous interpretation, everyone can hear the interpretation, leading to overlapping voices that obstruct listening.

  
  

Because of these challenges, simultaneous interpretation on virtual platforms can compromise the quality of communication and the fairness of the hearing.

Interpreter working during a Zoom court hearing

The Case for Consecutive Interpretation in Virtual Hearings

Consecutive interpretation involves the speaker pausing periodically to allow the interpreter to translate what was said. This method has several advantages in a virtual environment:

• Clearer communication: Interpreters can focus on listening without the pressure to speak simultaneously, reducing mistakes.

  
  

• Better handling of technical issues: Pauses give time to address audio problems or clarify unclear statements.

  
  

• Improved courtroom understanding: Judges, attorneys, and participants can follow the interpreted message more easily when it is delivered in segments.

  
  

• Reduced cognitive strain on interpreters: Without the need to multitask intensely, interpreters can maintain higher accuracy and stamina.

  
  

This approach aligns better with the limitations of current video conferencing tools and supports a fairer hearing process.

Practical Tips for Courts Using Virtual Platforms with Interpreters

To make virtual hearings more effective, courts can adopt several strategies:

• Schedule breaks: Allow time for interpreters to rest and prepare between segments.

  
  

• Inform participants: Educate judges and attorneys on the importance of pausing for interpretation and speaking clearly.

  
  

• Use high-quality audio equipment: Encourage all participants to use good microphones and headphones to improve sound clarity.

  
  

• Enable virtual platform's interpretation feature: When possible, activate dedicated language channels to separate audio streams.

  
  

• Test technology beforehand: Conduct technical checks to minimize disruptions during the hearing.

  
  

By implementing these measures, courts can create a more interpreter-friendly environment that supports accurate communication.

Addressing Common Concerns About Consecutive Interpretation

Some may worry that consecutive interpretation will lengthen hearings or disrupt the natural flow. While it can add time, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks:

• Accuracy over speed: Clear understanding is more important than rushing through proceedings.

  
  

• Structured communication: Pauses encourage speakers to organize their thoughts and speak more clearly.

  
  

• Reduced need for repetition: Fewer misunderstandings mean less backtracking and fewer delays overall.

  
  

Courts can balance efficiency and fairness by setting clear guidelines on pause lengths and interpreter cues.

Final Thoughts on Improving Virtual Hearings with Interpreters

Virtual hearings will likely remain a part of the legal landscape. To ensure justice is served, courts must adapt their interpretation practices to the realities of online platforms. Consecutive interpretation offers a practical solution to the challenges posed by virtual hearings, improving clarity, reducing errors, and supporting interpreters’ work.

By recognizing the limitations of simultaneous interpretation in virtual settings and embracing consecutive methods, courts can foster better communication and fairer outcomes for all participants. The next step is for legal professionals to advocate for these changes and for technology providers to enhance tools that support interpretation.