Many persons who are Deaf are non- or limited-English speakers. The function of interpreters is to remove the language barrier to the extent possible, so that such persons' access to communication interactions is the same as that of similarly situated English speakers for whom no such barrier exists. The degree of trust that is placed in interpreters and the magnitude of their responsibility necessitate high, uniform ethical standards that will both guide and protect interpreters in the course of their duties as well as uphold the standards of the profession as a whole. Interpreters are highly skilled professionals who fulfill an essential role in the community.

Applicability. This code shall guide and be binding upon all persons, agencies and organizations who administer, supervise use, or deliver interpreting services to the community. This code is therefore intended not only to set forth fundamental ethical precepts for interpreters to follow, but also to encourage them to develop their own, well-informed ethical judgment.

1: ACCURACY AND COMPLETENESS. Interpreters shall render a complete and accurate interpretation without altering, omitting, or adding anything to what is stated or written, and without explanation. The register, style and tone of the source language should be conserved. While interpreting, interpreters are to use the same grammatical person as the speaker. Guessing should be avoided. Interpreter errors should be corrected as soon as possible.

2: REPRESENTATION OF QUALIFICATIONS. Interpreters shall accurately and completely represent their certifications, accreditations, training, education, and pertinent experience. Interpreters shall bring to the attention of the parties involved, any circumstances or conditions that impede their performance of duties full compliance including, but not limited to: interpreter fatigue, inability to hear, or inadequate knowledge of specialized terminology, and must decline assignments under conditions that make such compliance unattainable.

3. IMPARTIALITY AND AVOIDANCE OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST. Interpreters shall be impartial and unbiased and shall refrain from conduct that may give an appearance of bias. Interpreters shall immediately disclose to all parties any real, potential or perceived conflicts of interest. Interpreters shall abstain from comment on assignments in which they perform.

4: PROFESSIONAL DEMEANOR. Interpreters shall conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the dignity of the profession. They strive to be as unobtrusive as possible.

5: CONFIDENTIALITY. Interpreters shall not disclose privileged or confidential communications or information acquired in the course of interpreting or preparing for interpretation.

6: SCOPE OF PRACTICE. Interpreters shall limit themselves to interpreting, and shall not give any advice, express personal opinions whatsoever to individuals for whom they are interpreting, or engage in any other activities which may be construed to constitute a service other than interpreting while serving as an interpreter.

7: ASSESSING AND REPORTING IMPEDIMENTS TO PERFORMANCE. Interpreters shall assess at all times their ability to deliver their services. When interpreters have any reservation about their ability to satisfy an assignment competently, they shall immediately convey that reservation to the parties in the course of the interaction. This may include remedial efforts to clarify concepts or making efforts to find a replacement interpreter.