Washington State Law 2.42 indicates when a Deaf Interpreter is required. Certified Deaf Interpreters play an important role as a cultural and linguist facilitator.
Washington courts are encouraged to make every effort possible to hire Certified Court Deaf Interpreters teaming with Certified Court Interpreters for all legal communication encounters with individuals who are Deaf, Deaf Blind, Deaf Plus, Late Deafened or Hard of Hearing.
Deaf Interpreters are specialists. They have particular linguistic knowledge and cultural experience which are often fundamental for successful communication access, and essential in high stakes situations. Deaf Interpreters are fluent with various visual and tactile communication modalities used by people who are Deaf, DeafBlind, Deaf Plus, Late Deafened and Hard of Hearing.
Personal experience and professional training give Deaf Interpreters a unique skill set. Deaf Interpreters have distinct formative linguistic, cultural, and life experiences that enable nuanced comprehension influenced by region, culture, age, literacy, education, social economic status, as well as physical, cognitive, and mental health challenges.
Deaf Interpreters have the ability to incorporate successful communication across all types of interpreted interactions, both routine and high risk scenarios. These specialists work with hearing Certified Court Interpreters to ensure the most successful and effective communication.
If you have questions about Deaf Interpreters, please contact the Sign Langage Interpreter Contracts & Resources Program Manager.
