Why Do I have to Provide Sign Language Interpeters?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a federal law, requires that all individuals with disabilities be given effective access to employment, government services and medical, mental health, legal and recreational services  (see additional references below). The laws entitle individuals with a disability to have access to these services. The type of access will depend upon the person's disability.  An individual who is deaf or hard of hearing may request a sign language interpreter. The service provider should ask the person with the disability what kind of accommodation they need. 

The ADA references "qualified interpreters" in its Title III regulations as "an interpreter who is able to interpret effectively, accurately and impartially both receptively and expressively, using any necessary specialized vocabulary." Interpreters must be qualified for the situation they are asked to interpret. 

A certified interpreter is one who has minimally met the standards set forth by a certifying body (RID or NAD). This includes knowledge of the code of ethics and meeting a standard on a performance skills test. Certified interpreters are bound by the code of ethics of their certifying national organization. The organization also has grievance procedures that allow consumers to address violations of their respective code of ethics.

I know someone who can sign, can't they help me?

Just as a person who knows some Spanish would not really be of much assistance to you as an interpreter for a native Spanish speaker, someone who has had a sign language class or two really won't be able to assist you in effective communication with a person who is Deaf or Hard of Hearing.  There is much more to interpreting than just knowing a few signs.  It is critical, for everyone involved, that all information that is spoken or signed is interpreted correctly.

I heard that some assignments or appointments require two interpreters. Why is this?

Yes, working standards call for two interpreters on most assignments lasting longer than 2 hours in nature. 

How quickly can I get an interpreter?

As with any service, the more notice we have to find interpreters, the better chance we have.  We are committed to doing everything possible to assist you in filling each and every interpreting need. 

What do I need to know about working with an interpreter?

There are several easy to follow tips that will make your interactions with and use of an interpreter most effective.  These include:

You can see additional tips here.