Md. R. CCCI Preamble
As amended through November 13, 2024
In the absence of a court interpreter, many persons who come before the courts are partially or completely excluded from full participation in the proceedings because they have limited proficiency in the English language, have a speech impairment, or are deaf or hard of hearing. It is essential that the resulting communication barrier be removed, as far as possible, so that these persons are placed in the same position and enjoy equal access to justice as similarly situated persons for whom there is no such barrier. As officers of the court, interpreters help to ensure that these persons enjoy equal access to justice and that court proceedings and court support services function efficiently and effectively.
Md. R. CCCI Preamble