Ky. Admin. P. Ct. Justice. 7
Ky. Admin. P. Ct. Justice. 7
COMMENTARY
Since sworn proceedings interpreters are responsible only for enabling others to communicate, they should limit themselves to the activity of interpreting or translating. Sworn proceedings interpreters should refrain from initiating communications while interpreting unless it is necessary to ensure an accurate and faithful interpretation. Sworn proceedings interpreters may be required to initiate communications during a proceeding if they find it necessary to seek assistance in performing their duties. Examples of such circumstances include seeking direction when unable to understand or express a word or thought, requesting speakers to moderate their pace of communication or repeat or rephrase something, correcting their own interpreting errors, or notifying the court of reservations about their ability to satisfy an assignment competently. In such instances, they should make it clear that they are speaking for themselves.
A sworn proceedings interpreter shall not give legal advice. A sworn proceedings interpreter shall not explain the purpose of forms or services or otherwise act as counselors or advisors unless they are interpreting for someone who is acting in that official capacity. The sworn proceedings interpreter may translate the language on a form for a person who is filling out the form, but may not explain the form or its purpose for such a person.
The sworn proceedings interpreter should not personally serve to perform official duties that are the responsibility of other court officials including, but not limited to, court clerks, court administrators, pretrial officers, court designated workers, or specialty court staff.