Ready for professional language services in German?
I will process your request as quickly as possible. I usually reply within 24 hours.
Maria Lingsminat, your interpreter and translator
Would you like to request a translation or interpreting assignment? Please contact me via the form below, by email or by phone (+49 176 403 705 74).
Based on your document or the key data for the interpreting assignment, I can provide you with a non-binding quote!
OPENING HOURS:*
Monday – Friday | 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (UTC+1)
Saturday & Sunday | usually offline
*As a freelancer, these hours are only approximate. Urgent requests or weekend assignments are part of the job—please feel free to contact me with your enquiry!
OFFICE:
Mühlenstr. 8a
14167 Berlin
Deutschland
FAQ’s
ASKED & ANSWERED – INTERPRETING
Here you’ll find the essential information about my interpreting services
What is the difference between interpreting and translating?
Put simply: translation is written, interpreting is spoken. Translators focus on turning documents into another language (such as certificates, articles, websites), while interpreters transfer spoken language in real time—at appointments, consultations or conferences.
Two distinct professions—each with its own demands.
What is the difference between simultaneous and consecutive interpreting?
Simultaneous interpreting is performed almost at the same time as the original speech—for example, at conferences. Interpreters usually work in teams in soundproof booths (or sometimes with portable equipment), and attendees listen via headset in their own language.
Consecutive interpreting happens in sections, with a time delay—typically for speeches, meetings, or official appointments.
How do you prepare for an interpreting assignment?
As a interpreter for Spanish-German and English-German I prepare for each assignment – researching relevant topics, terminology work and creating/updating my own glossaries. The more advance information you share (programme, documents, topics), the more tailored and effective my preparation.
Is a professional interpreter required for notary appointments?
Yes. Whenever a party involved in a notarial act (such as signing contracts, property purchases, or marriage agreements) does not have sufficient command of German, the presence of a qualified interpreter is generally required by law (§16 Beurkundungsgesetz). This ensures that all legal implications and content are understood. I offer interpreting for notarial processes and ensure clear, accurate communication.
How does court interpreting work—who arranges the interpreter and who pays?
Court interpreters are usually appointed and compensated directly by the court. The right to an interpreter is enshrined in law under the German Courts Constitution Act (Gerichtsverfassungsgesetz). Lawyers can request that an interpreter be appointed; if there is any uncertainty, it is advisable to check with the court in advance.
How is interpreting invoiced? Are there flat fees or hourly rates?
Fees depend on assignment type, duration and complexity: for courts, customs and police, set rates (e.g. JVEG) apply; for other contexts, you’ll receive an individual quote. Conferences, seminars and longer events are usually charged at full- or half-day rates, which include preparation and follow-up.
For private clients, payment is usually made in advance. Should it turn out that the actual time required on site is longer or shorter than planned, the final invoice will be adjusted accordingly—you will either receive an additional invoice for extra time or a partial refund if the appointment was shorter.
This approach ensures the process is fair, transparent, and straightforward for everyone involved—you only pay for the service actually provided.
I have an appointment at a hospital or with an authority and am worried I won’t understand everything. Can you accompany me as an interpreter?
Yes, because every word counts — especially in sensitive situations, the support of a professional interpreter is often essential. Misunderstandings in medical or official settings can have far-reaching consequences. I offer to prepare for the appointment with you and accompany you in person. Through numerous assignments — including work with youth welfare offices, public health departments, regional immigration authorities, and medical institutions — I have gained extensive experience in this field and have supported hundreds of people in challenging situations.
Note: I recommend to always check with the respective institution in advance—many offices and hospitals welcome the assistance of a qualified interpreter. Often, costs are fully or partially covered, especially if no in-house language services are available!
Do you offer remote interpreting (video and phone)?
Yes, I offer remote interpreting both for Spanish-German and English-German—via established video platforms such as Zoom, MS Teams or Webex, as well as by phone. These formats are flexible and location-independent, making them especially convenient when a face-to-face meeting isn’t possible or when a language bridge needs to be created at short notice. A quiet environment and a stable connection are essential.
What technical requirements are needed for remote interpreting?
For video interpreting, an internet-enabled device with a stable connection, camera, microphone, and speakers (laptop, tablet or smartphone) is sufficient.
For telephone interpreting, especially in a group setting, good sound is essential. A conference speaker phone (“spider phone”) is recommended. If need be, you can also use a regular phone in speaker mode; however, in my experience, this option is more likely to result in sound or connection issues.
I myself am procuring a stable LAN connection, and duplicate hardware (laptops, headsets) on my end to reliably prevent outages. I am happy to advise on the technical set-up for your situation!
How is confidentiality ensured for interpreting?
As a sworn interpreter (Spanish-German), I am legally bound by confidentiality obligations, supported by my judicial oath and the professional code of ethics as a member of the Federal Association of Interpreters and Translators (BDÜ). While interpreting remotely, no sessions are recorded, shared with or held in front of third parties.
FAQ’s
ASKED & ANSWERED – TRANSLATIONS
Here you’ll find the essential information about translation services, costs, timescales, and commissioning translations with me.
What does a translation cost?
How long does it take to translate my document?
What is the process for commissioning a translation?
What types of texts do you translate?
My specialisation lies in academic and professional texts from the fields of social sciences, humanities, politics, education, and culture, as well as literary translations including prose, poetry, and essays. This focus allows me to bring both linguistic expertise and subject-matter knowledge to every project, ensuring translations that are not only accurate but also contextually appropriate and stylistically polished.
Whether you need a complex academic paper, a cultural policy document, or a literary work rendered with sensitivity and flair, I combine professional translation skills with deep understanding of these specialist fields.
What are your working languages?
How do you ensure technical terminology is correctly translated?
I work with my own terminology databases and carry out thorough research for every project. When needed, I’ll work closely with you to ensure company-specific terms or specialised vocabulary are spot-on. After all, getting the details right is what separates good translations from great ones!
