Disqualification from Appointment or Proceeding

A judge may disqualify a court interpreter from an appointment under Rule 8.02 or a proceeding for good cause. Good cause for disqualification includes, but is not limited to, an interpreter who engages in the following conduct: (a) Knowingly and willfully making a false interpretation while serving in a proceeding; (b) Knowingly and willfully disclosing confidential or privileged information obtained while serving in an official capacity; (c) Failing to follow applicable laws, rules of court, the Code of Professional Responsibility for Interpreters in the Minnesota State Court System, or Court Interpreter Program policies. (Added effective January 1, 1996; amended effective January 1, 1998; amended effective July 1, 2020.) Advisory Committee Comment - 1995 Amendment Interpreters must take an oath or affirmation to make a true interpretation to the best of their ability, to the person handicapped in communication and to officials. Minnesota Statutes 1994, sections 546.44, subdivision 2; 611.33, subdivision 2. Interpreters cannot disclose privileged information without consent. Minnesota Statutes 1994, sections 546.44, subdivision 4; 611.33, subdivision 4. These and other requirements are also addressed in the Code of Professional Responsibility for Interpreters in the Minnesota State Court System.