Presented at the 2022 Summit

Legal 101: Introductory Principles and Terminology

0.3 CEUs, PS Legal

This seminar will introduce the fundamental principles of legal interpreting. We will evaluate how the law is regulated and influences our everyday lives, identify the scope of legal interpreting practices, and consider the potential impact interpreters have in these situations. The lecture will provide a guided discussion on common interpreting assignments and review legal terminology. We will also consider some examples and rationale for deaf-hearing teamwork.

Workshop Curriculum

  1. 1

    • Welcome

    • Workshop Handouts
  2. 2

    • Workshop

    • Quiz

Reviews from The Summit

Average Rating

4.9/5.0The activity provided opportunities to develop skill and/or awareness.

4.8/5.0The learning materials used were effective and complimented the goals of the activity.

4.8/5.0This activity will contribute to my professional growth.

4.9/5.0The instructor interacted with the participants in a professional manner.

  • Summit Attendee

    There were a lot of really good points during this workshop that will definitely positively effect my interpreting. The presentation was very clear and I did take away quite a bit of information. Thank you!!

  • Summit Attendee

    This workshop was a clear introduction/guide to "waters" that I've often glanced at from afar, but kept at bay for a variety of reasons. However, getting a taste of legal interpreting principles/scenarios was enlightening and it has piqued my curiosity to explore, learn and train more to dare I say... start "wading in"...? :) Thanks much, Chris, for a great presentation helping me to think more expansively about "What is Legal?"

  • Summit Attendee

    This was a wonderful workshop. It made the legal system much more understandable and the how it effects the interpreter's role. Wonderful instructor! Can't wait for Legal Basics: 201! smile

Meet Your Presenter

Certified Deaf Interpreter

Chris Tester

Christopher Tester is Deaf and an American and British Sign Language interpreter and disability inclusion consultant. He is certified by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf and holds Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) and Speciality Certificate: Legal (SC:L). A seasoned presenter, he specializes in workshop and seminar facilitation on topics (not limited to) disability rights and laws, Deaf and hard of hearing awareness, and American Sign Language and interpreting. Chris received his Bachelor’s degree at the College of the Holy Cross and his Professional Certificate from the Interpreter Education Program at LaGuardia Community College. He completed his MSc through the European Masters in Sign Language Interpreting and is currently a PhD student on full scholarship at Heriot-Watt University. He now resides in Washington DC and is an assistant professor at Gallaudet University.
TerpAcademy is an Approved RID CMP Sponsor for Continuing Education Activities. This Professional Studies program is offered for 0.3 CEU's at the ‘Some’ Content Knowledge Level. TerpAcademy promotes an environment of mutual respect, free of discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, or any other protected class.