Testifying in Court: When Translators and Interpreters Take the Stand as Expert Witnesses

This professional development webinar is presented in partnership with AUSIT and NAATI. 

Translating for evidentiary purposes is extremely challenging. To some extent, it is analogous to court interpreting, in that it should not only render what has been said but also how something is said, but in writing. An expert witness isn’t just there to share knowledge—they’re there to persuade, clarify, and withstand scrutiny. Therefore, preparing in advance is absolutely essential.

This webinar would benefit language professionals who would understand better the legal implications of their work when it is used as evidence in court. Language professionals would learn best practices for presenting expert evidence, handling cross-examination, and preparing statements.

Attending this webinar offers crucial insights into legal procedures, ethical responsibilities, and best practices when language professionals prepare themselves to give evidence in court as an Expert / Knowledgeable Witness.

• Enhance courtroom communication skills: Learn how to prepare to present linguistic evidence clearly and confidently under cross-examination.
• Prepare for high-stakes testimony: Understand how to structure Statements and respond to legal challenges effectively.
• Position yourself for expert witness roles: Build credibility and readiness to take on complex legal assignments.
• Stay competitive in legal translation markets: Demonstrating courtroom
   expertise can open doors to specialised work and higher compensation.

Presenter

Mr Steve Elkanovich is a practising NAATI Certified Professional Interpreter and Translator and has been an AUSIT member since 1996. He studied linguistics at the University of New South Wales and interpreting and translation at the Belarusian State Linguistic University. Steve has over forty years of professional experience and has worked as a professional Interpreter and Translator in Europe, Africa, and Australia, specialising in investigative and forensic translation and interpreting. He also taught languages and interpreting for many years at the Sydney Institute of Technology (TAFE). Currently, Steve is an Assistant Director Language Services at the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission.