Question 1

How do I book an interpreter or request a translation?

Accepted Answer

Call us at 800-374-5444, email info@focusinterpreting.com, or submit the request-a-quote form on this site. Tell us the language, the date, time, and location (or the file for translation), and the setting, such as a medical appointment, a deposition, or a training. A coordinator will confirm availability and send a written quote. Established clients can also book directly through our online scheduler.

Question 2

What is the difference between interpreting and translation?

Accepted Answer

Interpreting is spoken or signed: an interpreter converts live speech or sign language between two languages, in person, by phone, or by video. Translation is written: a translator converts documents, websites, software strings, or subtitles into another language. Focus Interpreting provides both, and many clients use us for a mix of the two.

Question 3

Should I choose on-site, phone, or video remote interpreting?

Accepted Answer

On-site interpreting is best for depositions, medical exams, trainings, and any meeting where body language and documents matter. Phone interpreting is fastest for short, unplanned conversations and is available around the clock. Video remote interpreting (VRI) combines the visual cues of an in-person session with the speed of a call, and it is often the right choice for American Sign Language. Our patented Focus VRI app works on any smartphone or tablet. If you are unsure, describe the situation and we will recommend a mode.

Question 4

Are your interpreters certified?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our interpreters are certified in accordance with national standards, and we provide state-certified medical and legal interpreters for healthcare, court, deposition, and workers' compensation settings. Every interpreter is HIPAA-trained, U.S.-based, experienced in both simultaneous and consecutive modes, and required to complete continuing education.

Question 5

How is interpreting priced?

Accepted Answer

Interpreting is typically billed by time, with rates that vary by language, mode (on-site, phone, or video), setting, and how much notice we receive. On-site assignments may include a minimum booking and travel where applicable. Your written quote spells everything out before you confirm, and there are no hidden fees.

Compare	On-site	Phone	Video (VRI)	ASL
Best for	Depositions, medical exams, trainings, conferences and any meeting where documents and body language matter.	Short, unplanned conversations: intake calls, follow-ups, front-desk questions, after-hours needs.	Urgent medical and legal encounters where facial expressions and gestures matter but an on-site visit is too slow or costly.	Effective communication with Deaf and hard-of-hearing patients, clients, students and employees under the ADA.
How fast	Scheduled in advance; rush dispatch available across Southern California.	Connected in seconds, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.	On demand in minutes through the Focus VRI app, 24/7.	Scheduled for on-site sessions; VRI available on demand.
Languages	120+ spoken languages	120+ spoken languages	100+ languages on video, including ASL	American Sign Language
Visual cues	Full: the interpreter is in the room.	None: audio only.	Video: faces, gestures and shared documents on screen.	Essential: in person or on video.
Cost profile	Hourly with a minimum booking; travel where applicable.	Lowest: billed by the minute, no travel.	Low: billed by the minute, a fraction of on-site.	Hourly on-site; per minute on video.

Every language service under one roof

Choose a discipline

Interpretation

Translation

Transcription

Other Services

Pick the right interpreting mode

On-site interpreting

Phone interpreting

Video (VRI) interpreting

ASL interpreting

Credentials procurement teams recognize

Before you choose

What are you waiting for?