Remote interpretation done properly
Remote interpreting is not a downgraded service. It is a different delivery mode for the same interpretation, suited to specific situations: short conferences, client briefings, statement-taking, remote tribunal hearings, Home Office video interviews, and any work where in-person attendance would cost more in travel than the engagement itself justifies.
Platforms
- Microsoft Teams — preferred for solicitor conferences and Home Office sessions.
- Zoom — for tribunal and counsel conference work, including breakout rooms for confidential pre-hearing discussion.
- Telephone — for short interactions and urgent custody-clock issues.
- Bespoke secure platforms — I have used a number of solicitor-firm and agency platforms; happy to use whichever your firm prefers.
Technical setup
I work from a quiet, dedicated home office with a wired headset, professional microphone, dedicated business broadband, and a wired ethernet connection. Audio quality is the single most important variable in remote interpretation accuracy — I do not compromise on it.
When remote works well — and when it doesn't
Remote works well for: solicitor–client conferences, witness statement-taking with experienced solicitors, Home Office substantive interviews (where the format is increasingly remote anyway), short tribunal hearings on papers, and pre-hearing briefings. Remote works less well for: long contested trials with multiple witnesses, vulnerable witnesses where in-person rapport is needed, and proceedings where the interpreter needs to see physical evidence or documents in real time.
Rates
Remote rates start at £40/hour for Sudanese Arabic, £45/hour for MSA, Gulf, Iraqi, Kuwaiti, and £50/hour for Yemeni. One-hour minimum. Full rate breakdown on the rates page.