Tenn. R. Sup. Ct., 6

As amended through November 4, 2024

Section 6 - Removal of an Interpreter in Individual Cases

Any of the following actions shall be good cause for a judge to remove an interpreter from a case:

(1) Incompetence;

(2) Being unable to interpret adequately, including where the interpreter self-reports such inability;

(3) Knowingly and willfully making false, misleading, or incomplete interpretation while serving in an official capacity;

(4) Knowingly and willfully disclosing confidential or privileged information obtained while serving in an official capacity;

(5) Misrepresentation of credentials;

(6) Failure to reveal potential conflicts of interest; or

(7) Failing to follow other standards prescribed by law and the Rules of Ethics for Spoken Foreign Language Interpreters in Tennessee Courts.

Tenn. R. Sup. Ct., 6

Commentary.

It is important to recognize that interpreters are sometimes called to court to interpret for someone who speaks a different language or dialect from that spoken by the interpreter. This section authorizes the court to remove interpreters who are not competent to interpret for this or any other reason, or who violate the Rules of Ethics for Spoken Foreign Language Interpreters in Tennessee Courts.