Texas Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators

The mission of the Texas Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators (TAJIT) is to further the professional development and recognition of all judiciary interpreters and translators in Texas. TAJIT's goals are:to formulate, promote and advance professional and ethical standards of practice to promote and provide an opportunity for professional development to promote and provide interaction among peers as well as professional relationships and cooperation with other professional associations to further the interests of the profession to hold periodic meetings, and to encourage, assist and mentor future interpreters and translators. In May of 2004, several interpreters from around the State met in Austin, Texas during a meeting called by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. After this meeting those interpreters and translators present decided that it was the right time to start a professional organization that would address their needs. In July of 2004, -two months later- The Austin Area Translators and Interpreters Association (AATIA) and the Houston Interpreters and Translators Association (HITA) held a joint conference and seminars, at which time they selflessly provided a springboard for TAJIT to come to fruition. Around thirty-five professionals who were present voted on the adoption of our logo and committed to the formation of this organization. Finally, on April 30, 2005, a group of these Texas licensed and non-licensed court interpreters and translators met again in San Antonio, Texas, to give its official birth to this organization. It has always been our sincere desire to create an atmosphere of support and confidence-building for those who already work in this profession, as well as those who wish to gain realistic access to a new career in judiciary interpretation and translation. Feel free to ask questions or make comments; we will attempt to give you a clear understanding of the profession from our perspective and respond to your request whenever possible. We hope this information will allow you to decide whether this profession is for you, and thanks for your interest. We look forward to having you among us. FIVE REASONS WHY BEING A MEMBER OF TAJIT WILL BE BENEFICIAL:1. Strong Code of Ethics - Through it we can promote professional integrity, high standards, and a sense of pride in every member2. Members are involved - We can gain greater representation by becoming involved in the development of legislation to protect our profession3. Members are informed - Well informed members can prepare ahead of time for any changes in the law which could affect us 4. Interaction with other members - We can all learn from one another by constantly sharing ideas, opinions and experiences in TAJIT's ListServe5. Accessible database information for potential clients - Any LCI in Texas who is a member can be easily located to be hired.