COMMUNITY INTERPRETER'S CODE OF ETHICS

PREAMBLE

A. Role of the Community Interpreter

Any person who is rendering services as a community interpreter must have knowledge of the interpreter's code of ethics and professional responsibilities. The role of the community interpreter is to ensure that accurate and effective communication occurs between all parties involved. An interpreter shall not give advice or express personal opinion outside their realm of expertise; (s)he understands the limitations of their cultural competency. An interpreter is a language specialist, not a cultural expert. The interpreter shall always act in the best interest of the parties to communication. The interpreter protects his/her own privacy.

B. Interpretation Settings

Community interpretation typically occurs in the fields of health care, education, social and legal services. Service-providers are usually professionals who are not familiar with the language/ culture of their limited-English proficient (LEP) clients. LEP individuals are usually language minorities or immigrants who may lack basic understanding of the role and practices of the service provider. Thus, there is nearly always the potential for some adverse consequence if communication is not understood.

C. Modes of Interpretation

1. Consecutive interpreting:the interpreting is delivered immediately after the source is presented, i.e. English speaker says a few sentences, interpreter delivers message to non-English speaker, and vice versa. This is the main mode in community interpreting, used for face to face interviews, meetings, discussions, or presentations before a group.

2. Simultaneous interpreting:the interpreting is delivered at the same time as the source is presented; mainly used when a LEP person participates in a group session along with English speaking clients of the service-provider (English-target language only).

3. Sight translation:oral translation of written documents such as intake forms, immigration documents, information release documents, waivers, etc. Sight translation is an expected part of the interpreter's job and is done at the time of interpretation assignment. The interpreter is not responsible for written translation of any document.

4. Summary interpreting:the interpreting follows delivery of the message, although only a condensation of the message is delivered. Should be used only for simple instructions and directions, and only with the understanding and consent of all parties.

PRINCIPLES

A. Accuracy and Completeness

The interpreter must interpret exactly what is said without omitting, adding, or altering anything said or written. It includes accuracy of style or register of speech, non-distortion of the meaning of the source language even if it appears incoherent, non-responsive, or offensive. The interpreter advises all parties that everything they say will be interpreted. The interpreter identifies and corrects errors as soon as possible. Upon recognizing any communication misunderstanding, the interpreter requests direction from the parties involved.

B. Confidentiality

The interpreter must understand and uphold the patient-doctor and attorney-client privileges. He/she must respect the confidentiality of the communication. The interpreter has the obligation to refrain from repeating or disclosing oral or writteninformation obtained during the course of employment unless required by law. The interpreter should not derive any profit or advantage from any confidential information acquired while acting in a professional capacity.

C. Impartiality

The interpreter does not advocate, mediate or speak on behalf of either party, or otherwise interfere with the right of individuals to make their own decisions. The interpreter informs all parties of his/her obligation to remain impartial, and demonstrates respect for all parties. The interpreter maintains a non-judgmental attitude about the contents of the discourse to be interpreted. The interpreter shall refrain from conduct that may give the appearance of a conflict of interest. If an actual conflict of interest or an appearance of same arises, the interpreter must inform the client. The interpreter must disclose any and all prior involvement with the assignment, however, such disclosure shall not include privileged or confidential information. If all parties agree that it is in the best interest that the interpreter continue, the interpreter may remain with the assignment.

D. Cultural Bridging

Under certain conditions, the interpreter may provide explanation of cultural beliefs and/or practices as (s)he is familiar with them, these conditions being:

a. that the explanation is necessary for accurate understanding of the communication;

b. the parties are unable to explain in their own words;

c. all parties consent to this intervention.

The interpreter alerts the parties to potential misunderstandings based upon stereotyping and/or different cultural expectations without contributing stereotypes or personal opinions.

E. Proficiency

By accepting an assignment, the interpreter implies the capacity to perform accurately in the given setting, to interpret efficiently and understand the dialect(s) spoken. The interpreter should decline an assignment that requires knowledge or skills beyond their competence or involves an unfamiliar dialect. Interpreters are responsible for accurately representing their certifications, training, and pertinent experience. Interpreters should strive continually to improve their skills and knowledge through formal and informal continuing education, and to obtain available accreditation and/or certification.

F. Professionalism

Interpreters ensure that their role and obligations are understood by all parties. Interpreters perform their duties as unobtrusively as possible. Interpreters do not promote personal interests while on assignment and shall not receive gifts or secondary remuneration above and beyond their set fees. Interpreters are punctual, prepared, and dress in appropriate manner; they do not bring children or other guests to assignments. Interpreters bring to the attention of an appropriate person any circumstance or condition that impedes full compliance with any principle in this document, including interpreter fatigue, inability to hear, or inadequate knowledge of specialized terminology. Interpreters must decline assignments under conditions that make such compliance patently impossible.