Frequently Asked Questions
Maybe it is your first time requesting an interpreter and you don't know where to start. We've compiled a list of questions to help you understand logistics, what an interpreter is and ADA rights. If your question is not listed below please feel free to send an email.
Sign Language Interpreters are professionals that have specialized expertise, training, and education. Interpreting is a complex process that requires a degree of linguistic and technical skills. Interpreters convert source language into target language in a variety of settings and demands.
While professional certification is not required under the law, an important measure of an interpreter’s proven ability is professional credentials by an accrediting organization such as Board of Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI) or Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, Inc. (RID).
Historically, many business have expected a person who uses sign language to bring a family member or friend to interpret for him or her. Relatives and friends often lacked the impartiality, education and specialized vocabulary needed to interpret effectively and accurately. It is particularly problematic to use people’s children and/or family members as interpreters in any language.
The ADA places responsibility for providing effective communication, including the use of interpreters, directly on businesses. Businesses cannot require a person to bring someone to interpret for them. The ability to have a live interpreter is an invaluable component that allows you to break the barrier of communication.
If a live interpreter is not available, Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) is another option that allows interpretation virtually across platforms such as Zoom and
Microsoft Teams.
Performing arts, schools, hospitals, doctors offices, court rooms, law offices, and government sites are all some examples of where an interpreter would render services.*
*there are very specific laws regarding court rooms and legal settings
The ADA is a civil rights law signed in 1990 that prohibits discrimination based on disability. It affirms and protects the rights of those with disabilities in regards to employment, government services, communication and other aspects of public life, including communication. For more information refer to the resources below.
The goal is to ensure that communication with people with these disabilities is equally effective as communication with people without disabilities. The key to communicating effectively is to consider the nature, length, complexity, and context of the communication and the person’s normal method(s) of communication. (ada.gov)
Interpreters work in a variety of settings with exposure to confidential information. As a BEI certified sign language interpreter, I follow the RID Code of Professional Conduct. This covers a complete range of Tenets, the first being Confidentiality.
For further info please refer to the Code of Conduct below.
Interacting with a Deaf or HoH individual with an interpreter should not be an awkward
encounter. While not always possible, this encounter should be seamless. Keep in mind that American Sign Language is a recognized language just like any other, therefore we should communicate with and treat the Deaf community as such.
Always make sure to speak to the Deaf or HoH individual directly, as if the interpreter is not
even there, refraining from using verbiage like:
“Can you ask/tell them?..”
“Is he/she/they...?”
Advance notice of cancellations allows us to respect everyone’s time and resources. When appointments are canceled last minute or missed entirely, it affects scheduling, availability for other clients, and in some cases, compensation for the professional who reserved that time specifically for you. Requiring advance notice helps ensure smoother operations, fairness, and the ability to offer that time slot to someone else who may need it.
Interpreter rates vary depending on factors such as the length of the appointment, location (on-site or remote), preparation required, and the interpreter’s level of certification and experience.
For a customized quote based on your specific needs, feel free to contact us directly.