How complaints are handled
Every complaint goes through the same three stages.
1. Initial review
Within 28 days, the professional standards team decides whether the complaint is about a breach of the code and is within our remit.
2. Investigation
An investigator gathers evidence from both sides. This usually takes 2 to 3 months.
3. Hearing
If there's a case to answer, a panel of the Professional Conduct Committee decides the outcome. Hearings are held online.
Possible sanctions
| Sanction | What it means | Published? |
|---|---|---|
| Advice | Guidance on how to improve, with no finding of misconduct | No |
| Formal warning | A written warning kept on file for 2 years | No |
| Reprimand | A finding of misconduct kept on file for 5 years | No |
| Suspension | Membership suspended for up to 2 years | Yes |
| Expulsion | Membership ended; the person can't reapply for 5 years | Yes |
Good to know
- The code applies to everything you do as a translator or interpreter, including unpaid work.
- Keep written records of instructions and agreements with clients; they matter if anything goes wrong.
- Breaking the law in your professional work is also a breach of the code.
Downloads
- Guidance on machine translation and AI (PDF, 160 KB) (members only)
- Complaints procedure (PDF, 220 KB)
Need help? Contact the professional standards team on standards@sfti.example or 0113 496 0142.
Page last reviewed 10 August 2026