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SCL JTA Phase 1 Launched –Laying the Foundation
SCL JTA Phase 1 Launched – Laying the Foundation
ASL Video: https://youtu.be/OgKq_gvcOsI
By Sandra McClure & Sean Furman
CASLI is pleased to announce the launch of Phase 1 of the Specialist Certificate: Legal (SC:L) Job Task Analysis (JTA)! Late July 2025, CASLI successfully brought together 13 Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and met with CASLIs new psychometrician team at Dainis & Company to begin this important work.
This important step brought together a diverse group of subject matter experts to identify and refine the tasks, knowledge, and skills required of interpreters working in legal settings. Their work resulted in a strong, research-based framework that reflects today’s professional standards and will guide the next steps in test development.
The next stage of JTA will focus on a national validation survey, gathering input from interpreters and stakeholders across the country to ensure that the framework represents the full breadth of the profession. Furthermore, this will help develop the blueprint of future SC:L assessment. We are excited for this and please be on the lookout for the survey in the near future! To continue this critical work, we are actively seeking funding to support Phase 2 and beyond.
We also want to extend our gratitude to those who made Phase 1 possible:
• CASLI Board of Directors – for providing start-up funding
• Interpretek – for their generous financial support
• KIS (Keystone Interpreter Solutions) – for their support with interpreting logistics
CASLI has already invested $60,000 in this effort, and with the generous support of partners like Interpretek and Keystone Interpreter Solutions, we have built a strong foundation. To complete the JTA and develop the new SCL exam, we estimate an additional $500,000–$750,000 will be needed for the next phases.
This is a pivotal moment for the future of legal interpreting. If you or your organization can contribute, or if you know of potential funding sources, please contact us at Testing@CASLI.org or SCL@CASLI. org. Your continued engagement and support are essential as we take the next steps in developing an updated, valid, and reliable SC:L exam for our profession. Together, we can ensure that Deaf individuals have access to qualified interpreters in every corner of the legal system.
Lastly, CASLI has implemented a page dedicated to the ongoing progress we are making with SC:L (Specialist Certification: Legal) https://www.casli.org/scl-specialist-certification-legal/
