What is expected when charging fees for interpreting services?

Charging fees for interpreting services involves adhering to professional standards of fairness and reasonableness. The expectation is that fees reflect the value of the services provided, ensuring that interpreters are compensated for their expertise, time, and the complexity of the work performed. This standard helps maintain the integrity of the profession and supports the viability of interpreting services in the long term.

By establishing that fees should be fair and reasonable, the focus is placed on balancing the needs of clients with the need to maintain professional standards and the sustainability of the interpreting profession. This approach encourages interpreters to set fees that are justifiable based on industry standards, experience, and market conditions, fostering a professional environment within the interpreting field.

In contrast, the notion that fees can be arbitrary undermines the professionalism of interpreters and can lead to inconsistencies that may devalue the service. Charging only what the client can afford might limit fair compensation and creates potential inequities where interpreters may not receive appropriate payment for their services. Finally, waiving fees upon request does not align with professional practices and may also threaten the sustainability of interpreting as a profession.