Interpreters Code of Professional Conduct (COPC)
Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf is a national registry that provides the national certification testing and requirements for interpreters. Their COPC provides seven tenets that all interpreters must abide by.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990
ASL Interpreters are considered a "reasonable accommodation" under the ADA. This legislation mandates that all Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals have the right to communication access through reasonable accommodations.
Certified Deaf Interpreters: How do they work?
A CDI provides essential interpreting work when paired with a hearing interpreter. They are used most commonly in legal, mental health, and minimal language environments.
A CDI is not only trained in interpreting, they are native users of ASL. This ensures that they are able to understand nuances of the language and connect best with Deaf clients. This is especially important when working in highly sensitive environments such as emergency situations, mental health crisis, or in the event that a Deaf individual has experienced language depravation (lack of exposure to language at an early age). This can also be a wonderful resource when working with Deaf+(individuals who have other diagnosis other than Deafness resulting in communication being limited in some way).
A CDI works with the hearing interpreter to gather all spoken information and then relays that information in a more culturally accurate approach to the Deaf client needing services.
File a Complaint with Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf
Whether you are a Deaf client or a hiring entity that experienced an issue with an interpreter, Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf holds interpreters accountable. While Follow the instructions on their website to submit your complaint.
State Requirments for ASL Interpreters
Each state sets their own legislation around what is required for an interpreter to work in that area. Click on a state below to view their requirements. Updated 2023.