Standards of Professional Conduct for Court Interpreters (California)

        (a) [Accurate Interpretation] A court interpreter's best skills and judgment should be used to interpret accurately without embellishing, omitting, or editing.

        (b) [Conflicts of Interest] A court interpreter should disclose to the judge and to all parties any actual or apparent conflict of in iterest. Any condition that interferes with the objectivity of an interpreter constitutes a conflict of interest. A conflict may exist if the interpreter has an interest in the outcome of the case. An interpreter should not engage in conduct creating the appearance of bias, prejudice, or partiality.

        (c) [Confidentiality] A court interpreter should not disclose privileged communications between counsel and client. A court interpreter should not make statements about the merits of the case during the proceeding.

        (d) [Giving Legal Advice] A court interpreter should not give legal advice to parties and witnesses, nor recommend specific attorneys or law firms.

        (e) [Professional Relationships] A court interpreter should maintain a professional relationship with court officers, parties, witnesses, and attorneys. A court interpreter should strive for professional detachment.

        (f) [Continuing Education and Duty to the Profession] A court interpreter should, through continuing education, maintain and improve his or her interpreting skills and knowledge of procedures used by the courts. A court interpreter should seek to elevate the standards of performance of the interpreting profession.

Text provided courtesey of Marcella Alohalani Boido <>

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