THE OKLAHOMA BAR JOURNAL 74 | AUGUST 2026 Oklahoma Bar Foundation News Expanding Access to Justice Through OBF’s Court Interpreter Support By Renee DeMoss IN THE LEGAL SYSTEM, language accuracy is a matter of justice. For individuals who are considered limited English proficiency (LEP), access to justice depends on their ability to understand a language through a qualified interpreter: “Many persons who come before the court are partially or completely excluded from full participation in the proceedings due to limited English proficiency … it is essential that the resulting communication barrier be removed as far as possible, so that these persons are placed in the same position as similarly situated persons for whom there is no such barrier.”1 The purpose of a courtroom interpreter is to help LEP individuals communicate and understand the proceedings in a judicial environment. This role involves more than just translating court proceedings word for word. It also includes depicting the meaning, tone, and style of the speaker while remaining impartial. Qualified interpreters play a pivotal role in ensuring access to justice and helping court proceedings function efficiently and effectively. In Oklahoma, two levels of courtroom interpreter credentials are recognized. “Certified courtroom interpreters” hold the highest level of credential, and “registered courtroom interpreters” hold the second highest level of credential. An interpreter candidate must first pass the test to become registered, and then he or she may take the exam to become fully certified. Certified courtroom interpreters have established the interpreter’s competence as a language professional, evidencing the ability to interpret complex legal proceedings with precision and neutrality, even in high pressure situations. A registered interpreter knows both languages fluently, but a certified interpreter has been specifically tested in live interpreting. Oklahoma statutes require a district court to first determine that a certified interpreter is not available before using a registered interpreter.2 Statements or opinions expressed in the Oklahoma Bar Journal are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Oklahoma Bar Association, its officers, Board of Governors, Board of Editors or staff. The new $500,000 OBF grant program addresses the shortage of qualified interpreters in Oklahoma. The program is designed to: Support the OBF’s strategic priority to expand access to justice for underserved populations Advance equitable court participation for individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) The program directly addresses: Interpreter certification and training costs Workforce development for interpreters Skill-building for current professionals
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