The business, healthcare provider, employer, or organization is required to pay for ASL interpreting services, not the Deaf individual.

The legal requirement: Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title II entities (state and local governments) and Title III entities (businesses and nonprofits serving the public) must provide and pay for interpreters to ensure effective communication with people who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

What this means in practice: The cost of interpreting services is considered a cost of doing business, similar to other operational expenses. As a covered entity, you cannot:

• Charge the Deaf individual for the interpreter
• Require them to bring their own interpreter
• Use the cost as a reason to deny services

Why it matters: Beyond legal compliance, providing qualified interpreters ensures that every Deaf or hard of hearing person who interacts with your business has equal access to communication.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. Under the ADA, businesses, healthcare providers, employers, schools, and government agencies must provide effective communication with individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

This typically means providing a qualified sign language interpreter or CART (realtime captioning) services when needed for effective communication. The ADA applies to medical appointments, legal proceedings, employment situations, educational settings, and any public accommodation where communication is necessary.

3 Bridges Sign Language Services is headquartered in Austin, Texas and provides ASL interpreting services throughout Central Texas and nationwide. We regularly serve Austin and the surrounding areas including Leander, Cedar Park, Liberty Hill, Marble Falls, Georgetown, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Hutto, Manor, Bastrop, Kyle, Buda, San Marcos, San Antonio.

We have a network of qualified interpreters across the country and can arrange interpreting services in any U.S. location. VRI (Video Remote Interpreting) and CART services are available anywhere in the United States with internet access.

Your company needs to provide interpreters for several important reasons:

• Legal Compliance: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that businesses ensure effective communication with individuals who have communication disabilities.
• Inclusivity: Access to communication is a fundamental right for all individuals, including those who are Deaf or hard of hearing.
• Enhanced Communication: Interpreters facilitate clear and accurate communication, reducing the risk of misunderstandings or miscommunications.
• Customer Satisfaction: Providing interpreters demonstrates a commitment to meeting the diverse needs of your customers, enhancing loyalty and respect.
• Legal Protection: Failing to provide appropriate accommodations can lead to discrimination lawsuits and legal liabilities.

You may need to provide an interpreter in various situations, including:

• Meetings and Conferences: Any gathering where individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing need to participate and understand the information being conveyed.
• Medical Appointments: Effective communication between healthcare providers and patients who use sign language is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
• Legal Proceedings: Providing interpreters in courtrooms or during legal consultations ensures that individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing can fully participate. Sign language interpreters in the courtroom must obtain a higher level of certification.
• Educational Settings: Interpreters are necessary in classrooms and academic settings to facilitate communication between students, teachers, and staff.
• Business Interactions: Whether it is a job interview, training session, performance review, or customer service interaction, providing interpreters ensures that individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing can fully engage.

In general, providing an interpreter is necessary if communication is essential for the full and equal participation of individuals who use sign language. Contact us for guidance on whether an interpreter is required for a specific situation.

When referring to a person with hearing loss, prioritize respectful and person-first language. Appropriate terms include "Deaf," "hard of hearing," or "person who is Deaf or hard of hearing." The capital "D" in Deaf is often used to refer to the cultural and linguistic community.

Avoid terms that may be considered outdated or offensive, such as "hearing impaired," "deaf-mute," "deaf and dumb," or "handicapped." Always follow the individual's preference for how they wish to be referred to, as preferences may vary among individuals.

A Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) is a professional who is Deaf or hard of hearing and has undergone specialized training to work as an interpreter. CDIs possess native proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) and a deep understanding of Deaf culture and linguistic nuances.

CDIs work alongside hearing interpreters to ensure accurate and effective communication. They provide insights into Deaf cultural norms, idiomatic expressions, and visual communication strategies. A CDI may be needed when working with Deaf individuals who use non-standard sign language, have minimal language skills, have cognitive or developmental disabilities, have experienced trauma, or are Deaf-blind. CDIs are also commonly requested in legal and mental health settings where nuanced communication is critical.

While having someone who knows sign language may seem convenient, it is essential to understand the distinction between informal signing and professional interpreting. Certified sign language interpreters undergo extensive training and testing to ensure they have the necessary skills to facilitate effective communication in various settings.

Using a non-certified individual, even if fluent in sign language, can lead to misunderstandings, inaccuracies, and ethical concerns. Certified interpreters possess fluency in sign language, cultural competency, and interpreting techniques that enable them to convey messages accurately. They also adhere to professional standards of practice and confidentiality.

In situations where effective communication is essential, such as legal proceedings, medical appointments, or business meetings, it is recommended that a certified sign language interpreter be hired to ensure accessibility and accuracy for all participants.

Using family members as interpreters is generally not recommended and may violate ADA requirements in many situations. Family members may lack the specialized vocabulary needed for medical, legal, or technical settings. They may also have emotional involvement that affects accuracy, or the Deaf individual may not feel comfortable sharing private information through a family member.

The ADA specifically states that businesses should not require a person with a disability to bring someone to interpret for them, except in emergencies. Professional interpreters are trained in confidentiality, impartiality, and accuracy, making them the appropriate choice for effective communication.

While writing notes can work for very simple exchanges, it is often inadequate for effective communication. Many Deaf individuals use ASL as their primary language, and English is their second language. Written communication may be slow, imprecise, and does not capture tone, nuance, or complex information effectively.

For important communications such as medical consultations, legal proceedings, employment discussions, or detailed business interactions, a qualified interpreter ensures that all parties can communicate fully and accurately. The ADA requires "effective communication," which note-writing often fails to provide in complex situations.

Lipreading (speechreading) is not a reliable form of communication. Even the most skilled lipreaders can only understand about 30% of spoken English through lipreading alone, as many sounds look identical on the lips. Factors like facial hair, accents, masks, poor lighting, and the speaker turning away further reduce accuracy.

Relying on lipreading for important communications like medical diagnoses, legal proceedings, or workplace instructions creates significant risk for miscommunication. Professional ASL interpreters provide complete and accurate communication access.

Yes, we offer specialized services for Deaf-blind individuals to ensure effective communication access. Deaf-blind individuals have diverse linguistic needs, so our interpreting services are tailored to accommodate their unique requirements. These services may include close vision interpreting, tactile interpreting, and Pro-tactile interpreting.

There are varying degrees of deafness and blindness among Deaf-blind individuals. Some may require the assistance of a tactile interpreter, where they physically touch the interpreter to follow signs, while others may have limited vision and rely on specific lighting or interpreter placement for visual access. Our interpreters who work with Deaf-blind consumers undergo specialized training.

Yes, in many cases, hiring interpreters can qualify as a tax deduction. Businesses can deduct interpreter expenses as a business expense if the services are necessary for conducting business, such as facilitating communication with clients, customers, or employees, or during business meetings.

Additionally, the Disabled Access Credit (IRS Form 8826) may provide tax credits for small businesses that incur expenses to provide access for individuals with disabilities. Tax laws vary by jurisdiction, so consult with a tax professional to determine eligibility and specific requirements for claiming interpreter expenses.

Failure to provide interpreters when required under the ADA can result in significant penalties. Individuals can file complaints with the Department of Justice or bring private lawsuits. Penalties may include compensatory damages, civil penalties up to $75,000 for a first violation and $150,000 for subsequent violations, attorneys' fees and court costs, and required policy changes and staff training.

Beyond legal penalties, failing to provide interpreters can damage your organization's reputation and result in loss of customers or clients. Proactively providing interpreter services protects your organization legally and demonstrates commitment to accessibility.

Submit your request through the 3 Bridges ASL Interpreter Request Form on our website. Include the date, time, location, type of assignment, expected duration, and any specific requirements or preferences.

Once we receive your request, we will process it and send a confirmation email with all details. The confirmation email includes a cancellation link if you need to make changes. We recommend booking as far in advance as possible, at least one to two weeks for routine appointments and four to six weeks for conferences or specialized settings.

All 3 Bridges interpreters are highly qualified, with most holding national certification through the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) or state certification through the Texas Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI). These certifications require passing rigorous exams in ASL fluency, interpreting skills, ethics, and Deaf culture.

Due to industry-wide factors such as limited testing availability, some interpreters are still working toward certification. Every interpreter we assign is thoroughly vetted to meet our standards for skill, experience, and professionalism.

For legal and court settings, we provide interpreters with specialized BEI Court Certification as required by Texas law. Our interpreters maintain their qualifications through ongoing professional development, self-study, mentorship, and active participation in the Deaf community.

Book as far in advance as possible. We recommend at least one to two weeks notice for routine appointments and four to six weeks for conferences, large events, or specialized settings (legal, medical specialty, mental health). Interpreters are in high demand, and scheduling can become challenging when requests exceed available supply.

However, we understand that urgent needs arise. We accept same-day and urgent requests with a $30 surcharge for requests made with less than 24 hours notice. Contact us immediately if you have an urgent need and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Cancellations made with more than 24 hours notice incur no charge. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice are charged for the full scheduled time or the two hour minimum, whichever is greater. This policy exists because interpreters reserve their time for your appointment and may have turned down other work.

Cancellations must be made online through the 3 Bridges cancellation page or by clicking the "Cancel Interpreter" link in your confirmation email. Cancellations cannot be made by phone or email.

Interpreting is cognitively and physically demanding work. Research shows interpreter accuracy declines significantly after 20 to 30 minutes of continuous interpreting. Additionally, sign language interpreters are prone to repetitive motion injuries from the physical demands of signing.

To maintain accuracy and prevent injuries, assignments longer than one to 1.5 hours typically require two interpreters working in 15 to 20 minute shifts. Team interpreting is also standard for legal proceedings, medical consultations, mental health appointments, and conferences regardless of duration due to the complexity and high stakes of these settings. The determination for team interpreting is made at the time of booking.

Yes, you can request specific ASL interpreters when scheduling services. We understand that individuals may have preferences based on past experiences, comfort level, or personal connections. When making a request, please provide the name of the interpreter you would like to work with.

While we strive to accommodate requests for specific interpreters whenever possible, availability may vary depending on scheduling and other factors. If your preferred interpreter is unavailable, we will work with you to identify an alternative interpreter who meets your needs and preferences.

Positioning: Position yourself where the Deaf individual has a clear view of both you and the interpreter. Maintain eye contact with the Deaf person while the interpreter is signing.

Communication: Speak directly to the Deaf individual, not to the interpreter. Say "How are you feeling today?" rather than "Ask her how she is feeling." Speak at a normal pace and volume.

Preparation: Provide materials in advance (agendas, documents, specialized vocabulary) to help interpreters prepare and deliver more accurate interpretation.

Clarifications: If you are unsure about any aspect of the communication, do not hesitate to ask the interpreter for assistance.

Our interpreters primarily work in American Sign Language (ASL), which is the predominant sign language used by Deaf communities in the United States. Some interpreters are also skilled in Signed English, Pidgin Signed English (PSE), and other communication modalities.

For Deaf individuals who use foreign sign languages or have unique communication needs, we can often arrange for Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDIs) or interpreters with specific language skills. Let us know your needs when booking so we can match you with the appropriate interpreter.

Yes, we understand that communication needs do not always occur during regular business hours. We accept urgent and same-day requests and will do our best to accommodate emergency situations. A $30 surcharge applies for same-day and urgent requests.

For after-hours emergencies, VRI (Video Remote Interpreting) may be available more quickly than on-site interpreters. Contact us as soon as you become aware of an urgent need and we will work to find a solution.

Providing preparation materials significantly improves interpretation quality. Materials such as agendas, presentations, technical terminology, acronyms, and speaker names help interpreters familiarize themselves with content before the assignment.

Interpreters who can prepare in advance deliver more accurate, fluent interpretation and can research specialized vocabulary they may encounter. We recommend sending materials 3 to 5 days before your assignment whenever possible. The more preparation materials you provide, the higher quality interpretation your Deaf participants will receive.

To prepare for an on-site interpreter:

• Send any preparation materials (agendas, slides, vocabulary) in advance
• Arrange seating so the Deaf individual can see both the interpreter and the speaker
• Ensure good lighting on the interpreter (no backlighting)
• Brief the interpreter on the setting and any sensitive topics
• Plan for breaks during long assignments
• Have water available for the interpreter

If you have questions about logistics, contact us before the assignment and we will help you prepare.

Yes, interpreters are ethically bound to interpret everything that is said, including side conversations, background comments, and environmental sounds that may be relevant. This ensures the Deaf individual has the same access to information as hearing participants.

If you need to have a private conversation that should not be interpreted, step away from the interpreted setting. Similarly, interpreters will voice everything the Deaf individual signs. The interpreter's role is to facilitate complete, accurate, and impartial communication between all parties.

Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) connects you with a qualified ASL interpreter via secure video technology on a computer, tablet, or smartphone. The interpreter joins remotely while the Deaf and hearing individuals are in the same physical location, enabling real-time interpretation without an on-site interpreter.

VRI is useful when an on-site interpreter is not available on short notice, for shorter appointments, or for locations where on-site interpreters are scarce. 3 Bridges VRI services are HIPAA compliant and suitable for healthcare settings.

On-site ASL interpreting is preferred for: appointments longer than 1 hour, complex medical procedures or consultations, mental health and therapy sessions, legal proceedings, situations with multiple Deaf individuals, settings with poor technology infrastructure, and whenever the Deaf individual requests on-site services.

VRI works well for: shorter routine appointments (under 1 hour), situations where on-site interpreters are not available, telehealth appointments, urgent or same-day needs, and locations with reliable high-speed internet. Always defer to the Deaf individual's preference when possible.

Internet: A dedicated high-speed broadband connection (wired Ethernet preferred). Internet speeds should be at least 1.5 Mbps minimum (up and down), with 3 to 5 Mbps recommended for reliable HD quality.

Hardware: A laptop, desktop, or tablet supporting HD video (720p or higher at 30 frames per second). The screen must be large enough for the Deaf individual to clearly see the interpreter.

Environment: Good lighting on all participants (no backlighting), a quiet environment with minimal background noise, and backup equipment or mobile hotspot in case of technical issues. Trained personnel should be available to set up and troubleshoot VRI promptly.

3 Bridges can provide the business or organization with a video link for the scheduled assignment. We use secure, HIPAA compliant video platforms.

Alternatively, if you already have a video meeting scheduled (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Webex, etc.), you can share that link with us and we will pass it along to the ASL interpreter. Let us know your preference when booking.

VRI may not be appropriate in several situations:

• Emergency or trauma situations where the patient is in distress
• Complex medical procedures where the patient cannot view a screen
• Mental health appointments requiring the rapport of an on-site interpreter
• Locations with poor technology infrastructure or unreliable internet
• Settings with multiple Deaf individuals
• When the Deaf individual has specialized language needs or requires a Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI)
• When the Deaf individual prefers or requests on-site services

3 Bridges can help determine whether VRI or on-site interpreting is most appropriate for your situation at the time of booking. Check out our VRI Guidelines.

Yes. 3 Bridges VRI uses encrypted, HIPAA compliant video technology. All our interpreters complete HIPAA training and sign confidentiality agreements. We follow strict protocols to protect patient health information.

We can execute Business Associate Agreements (BAAs) with healthcare providers upon request. Contact us if you need a BAA for your organization.

If you experience technical difficulties during VRI:

• Check your internet connection and try switching to a wired connection if available
• Close other applications that may be using bandwidth
• Try refreshing the video connection or rejoining the meeting
• Have a backup device or mobile hotspot available
• Contact 3 Bridges immediately for troubleshooting assistance

If technical issues cannot be resolved, the appointment may need to be rescheduled with an on-site interpreter. This is why having adequate technology and backup plans is essential for VRI.

To set up VRI services:

• New clients must review our VRI Rates and Policies and complete the billing information.
• Submit an interpreter request through our online form with date, time, and assignment details.
• We will confirm your request and provide a video link (or use your provided link).
• At the scheduled time, all parties join the video meeting and the interpretation begins.

VRI has a one hour minimum since there is no travel involved, compared to the two hour minimum for on-site interpreting. Services beyond the first hour are billed in 15 minute increments.

VRI's shorter minimum makes it cost effective for brief appointments where on-site interpreting would be more expensive.

Yes, VRI is well suited for telehealth appointments. The interpreter can join the same video platform used for the telehealth visit (Zoom, Teams, etc.) and interpret between the healthcare provider and the Deaf patient.

Ensure all parties have adequate internet connections and that the platform supports multiple video participants. Let us know when booking that the assignment is for telehealth so we can prepare accordingly.

Yes, 3 Bridges provides BEI Court Certified interpreters for all legal and court proceedings in Texas. Texas law requires interpreters working in court settings to hold BEI Court Certification, which requires additional specialized training and testing beyond standard interpreter certification.

Our court certified interpreters are qualified for trials, hearings, arraignments, depositions, mediations, arbitrations, and any on the record legal proceeding where interpretation becomes part of the official court record.

Court Rates apply to on the record proceedings where interpretation becomes part of the official record and Texas law requires BEI Court Certified interpreters. This includes trials, hearings, depositions, mediations, law enforcement interviews, and recorded proceedings.

Legal Rates apply to off the record settings such as attorney client meetings, case preparation, document review, and consultations. 3 Bridges confirms the appropriate rate based on the details you provide when booking.

We provide qualified legal sign language interpreters, both virtually and in person for the following: court hearings and trials, jury duty, depositions, attorney / client meetings and consultations, mediations, arbitrations, law enforcement interviews and interrogations, parole and probation hearings, immigration proceedings, family court matters and any other legal setting which requires communication access for the client.

Our legal interpreters understand courtroom protocol, legal terminology, attorney client privilege, and the ethical requirements specific to legal interpreting.

In criminal proceedings, the court typically pays for the interpreter. In civil cases, the party responsible depends on the jurisdiction and circumstances. Attorneys representing Deaf clients may be able to seek reimbursement through the State Bar of Texas Communication Access Fund.

For attorney-client consultations and case preparation, the law firm or attorney typically covers interpreter costs as part of representing their client. We recommend discussing interpreter arrangements early in the representation.

Contact us if you have questions about responsibility for interpreter costs in your specific situation.

Provide the interpreter with relevant materials in advance: case summaries, witness lists, technical terminology, names of parties involved, and any documents that will be referenced. This preparation significantly improves interpretation accuracy.

Position the interpreter where the Deaf individual can see both the interpreter and the speaker (judge, attorney, witness). Speak at a moderate pace, pause between speakers, and address the Deaf individual directly (not "tell him/her"). Allow extra time for the interpretation process.

For depositions and trials, consider scheduling a brief meeting between the interpreter and the Deaf client beforehand to establish communication preferences.

Legal interpreting is exceptionally demanding due to complex terminology, high stakes, rapid pace, and the requirement for verbatim accuracy. Team interpreting (two interpreters) is standard for all legal settings regardless of duration for several reasons:

• Maintains accuracy throughout lengthy proceedings
• Allows interpreters to support each other with unfamiliar terms
• Prevents interpreter fatigue that could affect accuracy
• Ensures continuous coverage without breaks in interpretation
• Meets professional standards and court expectations

VRI is generally not appropriate for most legal proceedings. Courts typically require on-site interpreters for trials, hearings, and depositions due to the high stakes, need for verbatim accuracy, and potential technical issues with video connections.

VRI may be acceptable for brief attorney client consultations or preliminary discussions, but always confirm with the court before relying on VRI for any official proceeding. The Deaf individual's preference should also be considered.

Yes, all 3 Bridges interpreters are bound by strict professional codes of ethics that require confidentiality. Interpreters do not disclose any information learned during assignments, including attorney client communications.

Interpreters understand attorney client privilege and their role in protecting confidential communications. They can sign confidentiality agreements or Non-Disclosure Agreements if required by your firm or organization.

Our legal interpreters hold BEI Court Certification or RID Legal Specialist Certificate (SC:L) as required for court proceedings in Texas. They have extensive experience in legal settings, understand courtroom protocol and procedures, and are familiar with legal terminology.

Legal interpreters also receive ongoing training in legal interpreting ethics, current legal terminology, and best practices for courtroom and legal settings.

Book legal interpreters as far in advance as possible, ideally two to four weeks for court dates, depositions, and hearings. Court certified interpreters are in high demand and have limited availability.

For urgent legal matters, contact us immediately and we will do our best to accommodate your request. Provide case materials and legal documents in advance so interpreters can prepare for specialized terminology.

CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation) is a service where a trained professional converts spoken language into text displayed on a screen in realtime with 98%+ accuracy. CART providers use specialized stenotype equipment to capture speech as quickly as it is spoken.

CART is used by people who are Deaf or hard of hearing and prefer reading English over sign language, individuals with cochlear implants, late-deafened adults, and people with auditory processing disorders.

Accuracy that matters: CART delivers 98 to 99% accuracy compared to auto-captions' 60 to 80%. That 20 to 40% difference is not just numbers. It is missed medication instructions, misunderstood legal rights, or lost educational content.

Auto-captions fail when it counts: They struggle with accents, technical terminology, multiple speakers, background noise, and crosstalk. A single misheard word can change "take two pills" to "take ten pills" or turn a "not guilty" into something else entirely.

CART captures the full picture: A trained CART provider identifies speakers, notes tone and emotion, and includes environmental sounds like "[laughter]" or "[applause]" that give context to the conversation.

Legal compliance: The ADA requires "effective communication." In many professional settings, auto-captions do not meet this standard. CART is the recognized accommodation for education, healthcare, legal proceedings, and workplace communication.

CART benefits many individuals:

• Deaf and hard of hearing individuals who prefer reading English over sign language
• Late-deafened adults who may not know sign language
• Cochlear implant users who benefit from text support
• People with auditory processing disorders
• Non-native English speakers who find reading easier than listening

CART is commonly used in educational institutions, workplaces, conferences, medical appointments, legal proceedings, and public meetings.

For on-site CART: You need display equipment such as a laptop, monitor, or projector screen where the text can be displayed for the individual to read.

For remote CART: Participants need a stable internet connection and a device with a screen to view captions. The CART provider must be able to hear the audio clearly, which may require high quality microphones or a direct audio feed.

Text display settings can be adjusted for individual visual preferences including font size, color, and contrast.

Yes. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires public facilities, employers, educational institutions, and healthcare providers to provide reasonable accommodations for effective communication with people who are Deaf or hard of hearing. CART is a recognized accommodation under the ADA.

Organizations cannot deny CART services based on cost alone. If a Deaf or hard of hearing individual requests CART as their accommodation, the organization is generally required to provide it, just as they would be required to provide an ASL interpreter.

While both services provide text of spoken content, CART and closed captioning have important differences. CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation) is specifically designed for live, interactive settings and provides verbatim, word-for-word transcription in realtime with 98%+ accuracy.

Closed captioning is typically used for pre-recorded media (TV shows, movies, videos) and may be edited for brevity or reading speed. CART also includes environmental sounds, speaker identification, and contextual cues that make it particularly useful for live presentations, meetings, educational events, and situations requiring two-way communication. CART is the preferred accommodation for live events under the ADA.

On-site CART: The CART provider is physically present at the event and can hear speakers directly. Text is displayed on a screen visible to the individual receiving services.

Remote CART: The CART provider works from another location and receives audio through a phone line, microphone, or video feed. Text is transmitted via the internet and displayed on the participant's device or projected screen.

Both options provide high quality realtime captioning. Remote CART offers flexibility and may be more readily available, while on-site CART may be preferred for complex multi-speaker events.

Yes, transcripts can be provided after CART sessions upon request. The raw CART output can be cleaned up and formatted as a written transcript of the event.

Let us know when booking if you would like a transcript, as additional fees may apply for transcript preparation and delivery. In Legal settings there must be a court order from the judge requesting the transcript of the proceeding.

The choice depends on the Deaf or hard of hearing individual's preference. Some individuals are native ASL users and prefer interpreters. Others prefer reading English text and request CART.

Always ask the individual what accommodation they prefer rather than assuming. Some events may require both CART and interpreters if multiple individuals with different preferences will attend.

CART can be integrated into Zoom meetings in several ways:

• The CART provider can share their screen displaying the realtime text
• Zoom's closed captioning feature allows a designated participant to input captions that appear as subtitles
• Zoom supports third party captioning services where you input a streaming URL
• The CART feed can be sent to a separate web based platform that participants view alongside Zoom

Test the setup before the actual meeting to ensure everything works smoothly. We can help you configure CART for your Zoom meetings.

We recommend booking CART services at least one to two weeks in advance for routine appointments. For conferences, large events, or situations requiring multiple CART providers, book four to six weeks ahead.

CART same-day requests incur a $50 surcharge. Contact us as soon as you know your CART needs to ensure availability.

ASL video production is the process of translating spoken or written content into American Sign Language (ASL) and presenting that information through professionally produced video.

These videos typically feature a Deaf presenter or qualified ASL interpreter signing the content on screen so Deaf and hard of hearing viewers can access the content in a visual language. ASL video production may be used to translate existing videos or to create new video content specifically designed for Deaf audiences.

Organizations often use ASL video production to make training materials, educational content, public announcements, healthcare information, and website content more accessible.

Contact us to learn how ASL video production can make your organization's content accessible.

Many Deaf individuals use American Sign Language as their primary language, and written English may not always provide the same level of clarity as sign language.

Captions provide access to spoken audio through written text, but they do not always fully convey tone, emotion, or complex information for viewers whose primary language is ASL. This is especially true for children or individuals who may still be developing English literacy skills.

ASL interpretation or translation allows Deaf viewers to receive information through their natural language. For this reason, many organizations now provide both captions and ASL interpretation to create a more complete and inclusive media experience.

A wide variety of media content can be translated into American Sign Language and presented through video. Common examples include:

• educational course materials
• employee training and onboarding videos
• healthcare and medical information
• public service announcements
• corporate communications
• marketing and promotional videos
• website welcome messages
• government announcements
• conference presentations or webinars
• movies and television content
• streaming and digital media productions

ASL interpretation or translation may be incorporated during production or added during post-production through video overlay. This approach allows media creators to make their content accessible to Deaf audiences while maintaining the original visual storytelling.

Captions convert spoken audio into written text displayed on the screen.

ASL interpretation presents the message through visual sign language performed by a signer.

These two forms of accessibility serve different communication needs. Captions support viewers who cannot hear the audio but are comfortable reading English. ASL interpretation supports individuals whose primary language is American Sign Language, which has a different grammar and structure than English.

For many organizations, providing both captions and ASL interpretation creates the most inclusive viewing experience.

Most of our ASL video productions feature Deaf talent who are native users of American Sign Language, including professional Deaf actors and actresses and Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDIs) who communicate the message directly in ASL.

Our production team includes Deaf talent who are actors and actresses, Deaf ASL language specialists who serve as consultants, Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDIs), and video production specialists who work together to ensure the translation is accurate and the signing is visually clear for Deaf audiences.

This collaborative process helps ensure the final video reflects both the meaning of the original content and natural ASL communication.

We take pride in working with highly experienced Deaf talent, many of whom have appeared in major productions such as the Super Bowl, Netflix, HBO, and many other productions, bringing a high level of professionalism and authenticity to ASL-accessible media.

Yes. ASL interpretation can be added to existing video content through ASL overlays or picture-in-picture interpretation.

In this format, the interpreter appears on screen alongside the original video so viewers can watch both the speaker and the ASL interpretation at the same time. This approach is commonly used for training videos, recorded presentations, webinars, and educational content.

ASL overlays are also increasingly used in film, television, and streaming media to help ensure Deaf viewers can fully experience the story and emotional content of the program.

Producing effective ASL video requires attention to visual clarity so viewers can clearly see the signing. Important production factors include:

• proper lighting so hand movements and facial expressions are visible
• high-resolution video quality
• a clean, uncluttered background
• camera framing that captures the signer's upper body and hands
• ASL signer placement that does not block important visual elements

Because ASL relies on facial expressions and body language in addition to hand movements, clear video production is essential for effective communication.

Yes. ASL videos can easily be embedded into websites, online courses, learning management systems, and training platforms.

Organizations often place ASL videos on pages such as accessibility statements, course lessons, training modules, or public information pages. This allows Deaf visitors to access important information directly in sign language while viewing the content online.

ASL video production is used by organizations across many industries that want to make their media accessible to Deaf audiences. Common sectors include:

• universities and educational institutions
• healthcare organizations and hospitals
• government agencies
• corporations and training departments
• nonprofit organizations
• film, television, and media production companies

Any organization that communicates through video can improve accessibility by including ASL interpretation or ASL translation.

Production timelines depend on several factors, including the length of the content, translation needs, filming requirements, and editing.

Short ASL video translations may be completed within a few days, while larger projects involving multiple videos or complex editing may require additional time.

A production team will typically review the project details and provide a timeline before filming begins.

Our ASL video production projects involve a collaborative review process that includes ASL language specialists, interpreters, and production professionals.

Because American Sign Language has its own grammar and linguistic structure, careful translation and review are essential to ensure the message is communicated clearly and naturally in ASL. Our team works together to confirm that the final video accurately reflects the meaning and intent of the original content.

Organizations can request ASL video production services by filling out the form on our ASL Video Production webpage that lists all the details of the project. Helpful information may include:

• the length of the video or script
• whether the video already exists or needs filming
• where the video will be used (website, training platform, broadcast, or streaming media)
• the intended audience
• the desired timeline

Our team can review the project and recommend the best approach for creating clear, professional, and accessible ASL video content.

In accordance with industry standards, our interpreting services include a two hour minimum charge for every request.

How is the two hour minimum structured? The initial hour covers the actual interpreting services, while the subsequent hour encompasses administrative tasks and travel expenses.

How are services billed beyond the two hour minimum? For each assignment, billing starts with at least one hour of interpreting plus the admin/travel fee. Additional services are billed in 15 minute increments. If interpreters are dismissed early, charges will be based on the full scheduled time or the two hour minimum, whichever is greater.

How is the admin/travel time determined? The admin/travel time is based on the distance from Austin/Travis County to the assignment location. The rates are as follows:

• For locations within Austin/Travis County: 1 hour of admin/travel time (with a 2 hour minimum)
• For locations in Kyle, Buda, Cedar Park, Lakeway, and Georgetown: 1.5 hours of admin/travel time (with a 2.5 hour minimum)
• For locations in Bastrop, San Marcos, and Marble Falls: 2 hours of admin/travel time (with a 3 hour minimum)

Rates for locations not listed above will be determined when booking.

Before scheduling, new clients are required to sign our Rates and Policies form for the service they are requesting. This form outlines our rates, minimum requirements, cancellation policy, payment terms, and other important policies.

Once we receive your signed form, you will be set up in our system and can begin booking services. This is a one time process, and returning clients do not need to complete it again. If our rates or policies change, we will email current clients with the updates so they do not have to sign new paperwork.

We accept ACH bank transfers (preferred), mailed checks, and credit cards. Credit card payments over $2,000 incur a 3% processing fee. You will receive an invoice via email shortly after your assignment is completed.

Payment is due upon receipt. 3 Bridges is a Net 30 company. Invoices not paid within 30 days incur a late fee of $50 or 10% of the balance (whichever is greater) every 30 days.

These payment terms apply to all 3 Bridges services.

3 Bridges is a Net 30 company, meaning payment is due within 30 days of the invoice date. Invoices not paid within 30 days incur a late fee of $50 or 10% of the balance, whichever is greater. This fee is applied every 30 days until the balance is paid in full.

As a locally based agency, 3 Bridges relies on prompt customer payments to ensure smooth operations and timely compensation for our professionals. To avoid late fees, we recommend setting up ACH bank transfers for automatic payment or paying promptly upon receipt of your invoice.

Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice are charged for the full scheduled time or the two hour minimum, whichever is greater. This policy exists because interpreters reserve their time for your appointment and may have turned down other work.

Cancellations must be made online through the 3 Bridges cancellation page or by clicking the "Cancel Interpreter" link in your confirmation email. Cancellations cannot be made by phone or email. To avoid cancellation charges, please provide at least 24 hours notice when possible.

Invoices will include a $30 surcharge for all urgent and same-day interpreting and VRI requests made with less than 24 hours notice. CART same-day requests incur a $50 surcharge.

For VRI specifically, "same-day" means less than 8 hours notice, and additional per minute surcharges may apply after the first hour.

We encourage our clients to schedule in advance whenever possible, as we cannot always guarantee services on short notice. If you have an urgent need, contact us immediately and we will do our best to help.

3 Bridges is a Net 30 company. You will receive an emailed invoice shortly after the assignment is completed. Invoices will be sent to the email contact you listed on the billing information form when agreeing to our rates and policies.

Payment is due upon receipt. Invoices not paid within 30 days will be charged a late fee of $50 or 10% of the total balance (whichever is greater) every 30 days late. If there is a change in your billing contact information, please let us know as soon as possible.

Yes, cancellations made with more than 24 hours notice incur no charge. You can cancel by clicking the "Cancel Interpreter" link in your confirmation email or through our cancellation page.

Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice will be charged for the full scheduled time or the minimum (2 hours for on-site, 1 hour for VRI), whichever is greater. Cancellations cannot be made by phone or email.

Contact us to discuss your organization's needs. While our standard rates apply to most situations, we work with nonprofits, educational institutions, and community organizations to find solutions that fit their budgets while ensuring quality interpreter services.

Yes, organizations with regular interpreting needs can set up billing accounts with 3 Bridges. This streamlines the booking process and invoicing for repeat clients.

Contact us to discuss setting up an account, especially if you anticipate multiple bookings per month or have ongoing interpreting needs.

Most conferences and events lasting more than one to two hours require a team of 2 or more interpreters who rotate every 15 to 20 minutes to maintain accuracy and prevent fatigue. For multiday conferences or events with concurrent sessions, you may need additional interpreter teams.

Contact us with your event details (schedule, number of sessions, content complexity, number of Deaf attendees) and we will recommend the appropriate staffing. Conference interpreting incurs an additional $10/hour per interpreter.

Position the interpreter where Deaf attendees can see both the interpreter and the presenter/screen without turning their head significantly. Typically this means stage left or right, elevated if needed, with dedicated lighting on the interpreter.

Key considerations: The interpreter needs a clear view of the presenter, good lighting (no backlighting or shadows on face/hands), visibility from Deaf seating areas, and minimal visual distractions behind them. Reserve front row seating for Deaf attendees near the interpreter.

Book conference interpreters four to six weeks in advance minimum. For large events, specialized content (medical, legal, technical), or peak seasons, book 2 to 3 months ahead. This ensures availability of qualified interpreters familiar with your subject matter.

Provide presenters' materials, agendas, technical terminology, and speaker names in advance so interpreters can prepare for specialized content.

Yes. We provide interpreters for in person, virtual, and hybrid events. For virtual events, interpreters can appear in a separate video window, picture-in-picture, or spotlight view depending on your platform. For hybrid events, we can provide on-site interpreters, remote interpreters, or both.

We work with all major platforms including Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Webex, and streaming services. Contact us early to discuss technical requirements and ensure smooth integration.

Provide interpreters with:

• Event agenda and schedule
• Presenter names and bios
• Presentation slides or outlines
• Technical terminology and acronyms specific to your industry
• Names of products, companies, or people that will be mentioned
• Any pre-recorded content that will be shown

Materials should be provided at least 3 to 5 days before the event. The more context interpreters have, the more accurate and seamless the interpretation will be for your Deaf attendees.

Yes, interpreters can cover networking sessions, receptions, meals, and social functions at conferences. These informal settings often involve multiple simultaneous conversations, so the interpreter typically stays with a specific Deaf attendee and interprets their conversations as they move through the event.

Let us know if your event includes social functions so we can plan interpreter coverage appropriately.

Proper lighting is essential for sign language visibility:

• Dedicated light on the interpreter (not just general stage lighting)
• No backlighting behind the interpreter
• No shadows on the interpreter's face or hands
• Consistent lighting throughout the presentation (no dramatic lighting changes)
• Light should not shine directly into the interpreter's eyes

We recommend doing a lighting check before the event to ensure the interpreter is clearly visible from Deaf seating areas.

Yes, we provide interpreters for all types of formal events including awards ceremonies, galas, fundraisers, graduations, and other special occasions. Our interpreters are experienced in formal settings and understand appropriate protocol.

This also includes weddings and personal life events and religious services and faith-based events, each with its own dedicated page.

For events with entertainment, live music, or performances, discuss these elements with us when booking so we can ensure appropriate interpreter coverage and positioning.