HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgreements/Contracts - JuvenileGRANT COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS AGENDA MEETING REQUEST FORM
(Must be submitted to the Clerk of the Board by 12:00pm on Thursday)
REQUESTING DEPARTMENT: Juvenile Court & Youth Services
REQUEST SUBMITTED BY: Suhail Palacios
CONTACT PERSON ATTENDING ROUNDTABLE: Suhail Palacios
CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION: ❑YES ONO
DATE: 09/04/2026
PHONE: 509-237-9821
ki"AW=r
.�
®Agreement / Contract
❑AP Vouchers
❑Appointment / Reappointment
❑ARPA Related
❑ Bids / RFPs / Quotes Award
❑ Bid Opening Scheduled
❑ Boards / Committees
❑ Budget
❑ Computer Related
❑ County Code
❑ Emergency Purchase
❑ Employee Rel.
❑ Facilities Related
❑ Financial
❑ Funds
❑ Hearing
❑ Invoices / Purchase Orders
❑ Grants — Fed/State/County
❑ Leases
❑ MOA / MOU
❑Minutes
❑Ordinances
❑Out of State Travel
El Petty Cash
❑ Policies
❑ Proclamations
❑ Request for Purchase
❑ Resolution
❑ Recommendation
❑ Professional Serv/Consultant
❑ Support Letter
❑ Surplus Req.
❑Tax Levies
[]Thank You's
❑Tax Title Property
❑WSLCB
FIAT 14W
Approval to authorize the Juvenile Court Administrator to execute, via DocuSign
electronic signature, Interagency Agreement with AOC3580 for the Juvenile Court for
Language Access and Interpreter Reimbursement Program, for the term July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027.
If necessary, was this document reviewed by accounting? ❑ YES ❑ NO M N/A
If necessary, was this document reviewed by legal? 0 YES ❑ NO ❑ N/A
DATE OF ACTION: ?/5 ZCP DEFERRED OR CONTINUED TO:
APPROVE: DENIED ABSTAIN
D1: 14L (Zg
D2:
D3:
WITHDRAWN:
4/23/24
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
K26-173
WASHINGTON
COURTS
INTERAGENCY AGREEMENT
BETWEEN
WASHINGTON STATE ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE OF THE COURTS
AOC3580
AND
GRANT COUNTY JUVENILE COURT
FOR
LANGUAGE ACCESS AND INTERPRETER REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM (LAIRP)
1. PARTIES TO THE AGREEMENT
This Interagency Agreement is made and entered into by and between the State of
Washington acting by and through the Washington State Administrative Office of the
Courts, hereinafter referred to as "AOC or Procuring Agency," and
Grant County Juvenile Court , referred to as "Court". The AOC and the
Court may be referred to individually as a "Party" and collectively as the "Parties".
2. DEFINITIONS
For purposes of this agreement, the following definitions shall apply:
a. "Credentialed Interpreter" means an interpreter who is Credentialed by the
Administrative Office of the Courts, as defined in RCW 2.43.020 (1) or an
interpreter certified by the Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH)
pursuant to WAC 388-818-500, et. seq. The names and contact information of
AOC-certified interpreters are found, and incorporated herein by reference, at
http://www.courts.wa.gov/programs orgs/pos interpret/ The names and contact
information of ODHH-certified interpreters are found, and incorporated herein by
reference, at:
https://fortress.wa.gov/dshs/odhhapps/Interpreters/Courtlnterpreter.aspx
b. "Qualified Interpreter" means a non-credentialed interpreter who is qualified on
the record by a judicial officer.
c. "Legal proceeding" means any proceeding in any court, and in any type of
hearing before a judicial officer, an administrative law judge, or before an
administrative board, commission, agency, or licensing body of the state or
any political subdivision, as defined in RCW 2.43.020 (4).
d. "Qualifying Event" means a proceeding or event for which an interpreter is
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 1 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
appointed by an appointing officer pursuant to RCW 2.42 and/or RCW 2.43.
3. PURPOSE
The purpose of this Agreement is to partnerwith individual local courts in improving
access to the Court for Limited English Proficient (LEP), deaf, hard of hearing, and
deaf/blind (D/HH/DB) individuals in accordance with RCW Chapters 2.42 and 2.43.
a. These funds are intended to address each court's following needs:
i. Financial Need — i.e., the gap between the court's available financial resources
and the costs to meet its need for credentialed, and qualified interpreters, and
the implementation of the Court's language access plan; and
ii. Need for Court Interpreters — i.e., the public's right to access the court, and the
court's responsibility to provide court credentialed, and qualified interpreters as
required by RCW Chapters 2.42 and 2.43.
Need for Language Access in General — i.e., translations, customer service,
technology enabling remote interpreting, and other things that are necessary for courts
to provide fair and equitable access for LEP and D/1-11-1013 individuals.
THEREFORE, IT IS MUTUALLY AGREED THAT:
4. STATEMENT OF WORK
The Court shall:
a. Ensure that the interpreter funding is used only for language access purposes and
for reimbursement of costs paid to credentialed and qualified interpreters for
Qualifying Events pursuant to Appendix A, which is incorporated in this
agreement.
b. Track and provide interpreter cost and usage data through the web application
provided by the AOC LAIRP, reflecting information about the Court's interpreter
and language access costs and services.
c. Provide the AOC Project Manager with a list of all users who require access to
submit data to the Language Access and Interpreter Reimbursement Program web
application.
d. Work with the AOC Language Access Team, the Interpreter and Language Access
Commission, and neighboring courts to identify and implement best and promising
practices for providing language access and interpreter services.
e. Encourage its staff overseeing interpreter services at the court to attend trainings
(in person and/or online) provided by the AOC Interpreter and Language Access
Commission and Language Access Team.
f. Elect to pay for interpreter services, if necessary, that are not in accordance with
the provisions of Appendix A as set forth; while such payments will not be
reimbursed, Court still commits to entering data into the application for these
interpreter services, irrespective of their eligibility for reimbursement.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 2 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
g. Have a Language Access Plan (LAP) in place to receive reimbursement funds
under this program.
i. The Court must submit the most recent version of their LAP to the AOC
Project Manager.
a. Court that submitted an approved LAP in FY2026 is deemed in
compliance with this program requirement and does not need to
submit a new plan for FY2027.
b. Court that did not submit a LAP in FY2026 must submit the LAP to
the AOC Project Manager at LAP@courts.wa.gov by December 1,
2026.
ii. The Court agrees to work with the AOC LAP Coordinator to update and
revise the LAP for final approval by the AOC.
iii. The Court certifies that they will exercise reasonable due diligence in
maintaining and updating their LAP as required by law.
Subject to its other provisions, the period of performance of this Agreement shall;
commence on July 1, 2026, and end on June 30, 2027, unless terminated sooner or
extended, as provided herein.
6. COMPENSATION
AOC will reimburse the Court a total compensation not to exceed $5,314 for
payments made during the period from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, related
to the purpose of this agreement.
Procuring Agency may extend the term of this Contract or increase funds by mutual
written amendment. Such amendment shall be on the same terms and conditions as
set forth in this Contract.
7. INVOICES; BILLING; PAYMENT
The Court will submit properly prepared itemized invoices quarterly through the web
application on an A19 form to AOC Program Manager. The Data shall be submitted
electronically to the AOC as described in Subsection 4.b., above, and in conjunction
with the quarterly invoice. The Court shall maintain sufficient backup documentation
of expenses under this Agreement observing the following:
a. The Court shall receive payment for its costs for interpreter and language access
services as set forth in Appendix A and incorporated herein.
b. The Court shall not be reimbursed for interpreter services costs for Qualifying
Events or other goods and services set forth in Appendix A until properly
completed A19 invoices, corresponding data (See subsection 4.b.), and the AOC
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 3 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
approved LAP (See subsection 4.g.), are received and approved by AOC, pursuant
to the following schedule:
i. Reflecting Qualifying and non -qualifying Events and any goods or services
purchased, between July 1, 2026, and September 30, 2026, must be
received by the AOC no later than December 31, 2026.
ii. Reflecting Qualifying and non -qualifying Events and any goods or services
purchased, between October 1, 2026, and December 31, 2026, must be
received by the AOC no later than February 28, 2027.
iii. Reflecting Qualifying and non -qualifying Events and any goods or services
purchased, between January 1, 2027, and March 31, 2027, must be
received by the AOC no later than April 30, 2027.
iv. Reflecting Qualifying and non -qualifying Events and any goods or services
purchased, between April 1, 2027, and June 30, 2027, must be received by
the AOC no later than July 15, 2027.
c. The Court shall submit documents related to reimbursement claims upon request
by the AOC, including but not limited to translated materials or invoices for goods
and services.
d. The Court shall make reasonable efforts to submit invoices by the due date. Any
supplemental invoices submitted after the due date must be reported to the AOC
for approval, which may be processed at the discretion of the AOC Project
Manager.
e. Payment to Court for approved and completed work will be made by warrant or
account transfer by AOC within 30 days after each quarterly deadline, provided
that the invoice and data report are complete and accurate.
Incorrect or incomplete Al 9s shall be returned by AOC to the Court for correction
and resubmission.
f. Payment will be considered timely if made by the AOC within thirty (30) calendar
dates after each quarterly deadline. No A19 shall be submitted until after a
deliverable has been accepted by the AOC Program Manager.
The AOC will not make any advanced payments or payments in anticipation of
services or supplies under this Contract.
8. REVENUE SHARING
a. AOC, in its sole discretion, may initiate revenue sharing. If AOC determines the
Court may not spend all funds or spend more funds available under the
Agreement, then AOC may reduce or increase the Agreement amount. AOC PM
will notify the Court that funding will be reallocated.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 4 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
b. If the AOC initiates revenue sharing, then the Court must submit the final revenue
sharing Al to AOC Program Manager by July 15, 2027.
9. AGREEMENT MANAGEMENT
The Program Manager and Court Program Manager noted below shall be responsible
for and shall be the contact people for all communications and billings regarding the
performance of this Contract. The parties may change administrators by written
notice.
AOC Program Manager Court Program Manager
Tae Yoon
Pepper L. Teterud
PO Box 41170
Olympia, WA 98504-1170 Office Manager
InterpreterreimbursementCab-courts.wa.gov 303 Abel Rd
(360) 705-5281 Ephrata, WA 98823-0818
pteterud@grantcountywa.gov
(509) 754-5690
10. RECORDS, DOCUMENTS, AND REPORTS
a. Records Retention. The Court shall maintain books, records, documents and other
evidence of accounting procedures and practices which sufficiently and properly
reflect all direct and indirect costs of any nature expended in the performance of
this contract. These records shall be subject at all reasonable times to inspection,
review, or audit by personnel duly authorized by the AOC, the Office of the State
Auditor, and federal officials so authorized by law, rule, regulation, or contract. The
Court will retain all books, records, documents, and other material relevant to this
contract as required, a minimum of six (6) years after end of period of performance
(including all amendments to extend) or termination of the agreement or as
otherwise specified and make them available for inspection by persons authorized
under this provision. If any litigation, claim, or audit is commenced prior to the
expiration of the required retention period, such period shall extend until all such
litigation, claims, or audits have been resolved.
b. Public Records. It is the policy of the Administrative Office of the Courts to facilitate
access to its administrative public records. This Agreement and related records
are subject to disclosure under General Court Rule 31.1. For additional
information, please contact the AOC Public Records Officer.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 5 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
11. RIGHTS IN DATA
Unless otherwise provided, data which originates from this Agreement shall be "works
for hire" as defined by the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976 and shall be owned by the AOC.
Data shall include, but not be limited to, reports, documents, pamphlets,
advertisements, books magazines, surveys, studies, computer programs, films,
tapes, and/or sound reproductions. Ownership includes the right to copyright, patent,
register, and the ability to transfer these rights.
12.RESPONSIBILITY OF THE PARTIES
Each party to this Agreement assumes responsibility for claims and/or damages to
persons and/or property resulting from any act or omission on the part of itself, its
employees, or its agents. Neither party assumes any responsibility to the other party
for any third -party claims.
13.DISPUTE RESOLUTION
To the extent practicable, the Parties shall use their best, good faith efforts
cooperatively and collaboratively to resolve any dispute that may arise in connection
with this Agreement as efficiently as practicable, and at the lowest possible level with
authority to resolve such dispute. The Parties shall make a good faith effort to
continue without delay to carry out their respective responsibilities under this
Agreement while attempting to resolve any such dispute. If, however, a dispute
persists and cannot reasonably be resolved, it may be escalated within each
organization. In such circumstance, upon notice by either party, each party, within
five (5) business days shall reduce its description of the dispute to writing and deliver
it to the other party. The receiving party then shall have three (3) business days to
review and respond in writing. In the event the parties cannot agree on a mutual
resolution within fifteen (15) business days, the parties shall appoint a member of a
dispute resolution board within Thurston County, and those two appointed members
will select a third. The Board shall employ dispute resolution measures and its result
is binding. Both parties agree that the existence of a dispute notwithstanding, the
Parties will continue without delay to carry out all respective responsibilities under this
Agreement that are not affected by the dispute.
14. GENERAL PROVISIONS
a. Amendment or Modification. Except as set forth herein, this Agreement may not
be amended or modified except in writing and signed by a duly authorized
representative of each party hereto. In revenue sharing procedures AOC will issue
a unilateral amendment.
b. Appendix. All appendices referred to herein are deemed to be incorporated in this
Agreement in their entirety.
c. Assignment. The work to be provided under this Agreement, and any claim arising
thereunder, is not assignable or delegable by either party in whole or in part,
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 6 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
without the express prior written consent of the other party, which consent shall
not be unreasonably withheld.
d. Authority. Each party to this Agreement, and each individual signing on behalf of
each party, hereby represents and warrants to the other that it has full power and
authority to enter into this Agreement and that its execution, delivery, and
performance of this Agreement has been fully authorized and approved, and that
no further approvals or consents are required to bind such party.
e. Captions & Heading. The captions and headings in this Agreement are for
convenience only and are not intended to, and shall not be construed to, limit,
enlarge, or affect the scope or intent of this Agreement nor the meaning of any
provisions hereof.
f. Conformance. If any provision of this Agreement violates any statute or rule of law
of the State of Washington, it is considered modified to conform to that statute or
rule of law.
g. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts,
each of which shall be deemed an original and all of which counterparts together
shall constitute the same instrument which may be sufficiently evidenced by one
counterpart. Execution of this Agreement at different times and places by the
Parties shall not affect the validity thereof so long as all the Parties hereto execute
a counterpart of this Agreement.
h. Electronic Signatures. An electronic signature or electronic record of this
Agreement or any other ancillary agreement shall be deemed to have the same
legal effect as delivery of an original executed copy of this Agreement or such
other ancillary agreement for all purposes.
i. Entire Agreement, This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement and
understanding of the Parties with respect to the subject matter and supersedes
all prior negotiations, representations, and understandings between them. There
are no representations or understandings of any kind not set forth herein.
j. Governing Law. The validity, construction, performance, and enforcement of this
Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of
the State of Washington, without regard to its choice of law principles that would
provide for the application of the laws of another jurisdiction.
k. Independent Capacity. The employees or agents of each party who are engaged
in the performance of this Agreement shall continue to be employees or agents
of that party and shall not be considered for any purpose to be employees or
agents of the other party.
I. Jurisdiction & Venue. In the event that any action is brought to enforce any
provision of this Agreement, the parties agree to exclusive jurisdiction in Thurston
REV August 2026 AOC358O Page 7 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
County Superior Court for the State of Washington and agree that in any such
action venue shall lie exclusively at Olympia, Washington.
m. No Aqency. The parties agree that no -agency, partnership, or joint venture of any
kind shall be or is intended to be created by or under this Agreement. Neither
party is an agent of the other party nor authorized to obligate it.
n. Right of Inspection.. The Court shall provide right of access to its facilities to the
AOC, or any of its officers, or to any other authorized agent or official of the State
of Washington at all reasonable times, in order to monitor and evaluate
performance, compliance, and/or quality assurance under this agreement.
o. Severability. If any provision of this Agreement or any provision of any document
incorporated by reference shall be held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the
other provisions of this Agreement which can be given effect without the invalid
provision, if such remainder conforms to the requirements of applicable law and
the fundamental purpose of this agreement, and to this end the provisions of this
Agreement are declared to be severable.
p. Termination for Cause. If for any cause, either party does not fulfill in a timely and
proper manner its obligations under this Agreement, or if either party violates any of
these terms and conditions, the aggrieved party will give the other party written
notice of such failure or violation. The responsible party will be given the opportunity
to correct the violation or failure within 15 working days. If failure or violation is not
corrected, this Agreement may be terminated immediately by written notice of the
aggrieved party to the other.
q. Termination for Convenience. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement,
either party may terminate this Agreement upon thirty (30) calendar days prior
written notification. Upon such termination, the parties shall be liable only for
performance rendered or costs incurred in accordance with'the terms of this
Agreement prior to the effective date of such termination.
r. 'Termination for Non -Availability of Funds. AOC's ability to make payments is
contingent on availability of funding. In the event funding from state, federal, or other
sources is withdrawn, reduced, or limited in any way after the effective date and prior
to completion or expiration date of this Agreement, AOC, at its sole discretion, may
elect to terminate the Agreement, in whole or part, for convenience or to renegotiate
the Agreement subject to new funding limitations and conditions. AOC may also
elect to suspend performance of the Agreement until AOC determines the funding
insufficiency is resolved. AOC may exercise any of these options with no notification
restrictions, although AOC will make a reasonable attempt to provide notice.
In the event of termination or suspension, AOC will reimburse eligible costs incurred
by the Court through the effective date of termination or suspension. Reimbursed
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 8 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
costs must be agreed to by AOC and the Court. In no event shall AOC's
reimbursement exceed AOC's total responsibility under the agreement and any
amendments.
s. Suspension for Convenience. AOC may suspend this Agreement or any portion
thereof for a temporary period by.providing written notice to the Court a minimum of
seven (7) calendar days before the suspension date. Court shall resume
performance on the first. business day following the suspension period unless
another day is specified in .writing by AOC prior to the expiration of the suspension
period.
t. Waiver. A failure by either party to exercise its rights under this Agreement shall
not preclude that party from subsequent exercise of such rights and shall not
constitute a waiver of any other rights under this Agreement unless stated to be
such in a writing signed by an authorized representative of the party and attached
to the original Agreement.
EXECUTED AND EFFECTIVE -as of the day and date first above written.
WASHINGTON STATE ADMINISTRATIVE Grant County Juvenile Court'
OFFICE OF THE COURTS LAIRP
Signature Date
Dawn Marie Rubio
Name
WA State Court Administrator / AOC Director
Title
Signature Date
Suhail Palacios
Name
Juvenile Court Administrator
Title
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 9 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
WASHINGTON STATE LANGUAGE ACCESS AND INTERPRETER
REIMBURSEMENT PROGRM FUNDING
The Language Access and Reimbursement Program funding conditions and payment
structure shall be as follows:
1. GENERAL FUNDING CONDITIONS
The Washington State Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) will reimburse
Courts under this Agreement for the cost of spoken language interpretation and
sign language interpretation and other goods and services that improve language
access in the courts for Limited English Proficient (LEP), deaf, and hard of hearing
persons. This includes interpreters credentialed by AOC (certified or registered),
or otherwise - court -qualified interpreters appointed pursuant to RCW 2.42 and
RCW 2.43 under the following conditions listed under Section 2 "Qualifying
Interpreter Events."
It also includes goods and services that improve language access, listed under
Section 3 "Language Access Goods and Services".
Courts shall work with AOC staff in determining whether an expense that is not
explicitly mentioned below, qualifies as a reimbursable expense under the
Agreement.
2. QUALIFYING INTERPRETING EVENTS
A. Spoken Language Interpreters Qualifying Events
AOC will reimburse the Court50% of the actual expenses for services of WA
state AOC-credentialed or otherwise court -qualified interpreters pursuant to
RCW 2.43 that meet one of the following conditions:
a) If there is at least one WA state AOC credentialed interpreter in the
language being used, then reimbursement will only be provided for using
an AOC credentialed interpreter who is credentialed in that language.
b) Compensation for interpreters for languages for which neither a certified
interpreter nor registered interpreter is offered will be reimbursed where
the interpreter has been qualified on the record pursuant to RCW 2.43.
c) Courts will not be reimbursed for events using non-AOC credentialed
interpreters if there is one or more WA state AOC credentialed
interpreter listed for the language being used.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 10 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
B. Sign Language Interpreters Qualifying Events
AOC will reimburse the Court 50% of the actual expenses for services of
American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters and Certified Deaf Interpreters
(CDI) pursuant to RCW 2.42 when the interpreter is listed with the Department
of Social and Health Services, Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DSHS,
ODHH) as acourt-certified interpreter.
The Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) at the Department of Social
and Health Services (DSHS) maintains a list of Certified Court Sign Language
Interpreters. This list includes American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters and
Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDI). To qualify for reimbursement, and event using
an ASL and/or CDI interpreter from this list must be used.
Certified interpreters are listed under three categories:
• Specialist Certificate: Legal — SC: L
• RID Certification with SC: L written test
• Intermediary Interpreters (Deaf Interpreter)
The most up to date list can be found here:
https://fortress.wa.gov/dshs/od h happs/Interpreters/Cou rtl nterpreter.aspx
C. Out of State Court Credentialed Interpreters Qualifying Events
AOC will reimburse the Court 25% of the actual expenses for services of out of
state court credentialed or otherwise court -qualified interpreters pursuant to
Exhibit I, Out of State Interpreter Reimbursement Policy, and Guidelines that
meet all of the following conditions:
a) Interpreter service is provided for a designated High Priority Language.
b) Court has made reasonable efforts to secure a WA state court
credentialed interpreter.
c) A WA state court credentialed interpreter was not reasonably available
for the assignment.
d) The out of state interpreter holds credential status that aligns with WA
state's court credential standards.
e) The out of state interpreter has been provided with the Code of
Professional Responsibility for Judiciary Interpreters. (GR1 1.2)
D. Staff Interpreters (Salaried Staff)
Reimbursement will be provided for salaried staff meeting the Qualifying Event
conditions for 50% of the payment of credentialed spoken and sign language
interpreters, as referenced in subsections 2.A and 2.13 above.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 11 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
E. Telephonic and Video Remote Interpreting and Services for Legal
Proceedings
AOC will reimburse 50% of the costs for using certified, registered, or otherwise
qualified interpreters operating by telephone or video for court proceedings.
The services must meet the Qualifying Event conditions for the payment of
credentialed spoken and sign language interpreters, as referenced in
subsections 2.A and 2.13 above.
3. LANGUAGE ACCESS GOODS AND SERVICES
Courts can request reimbursement for 100% of the costs for goods and services
that will help increase language access in the Court.
Courts shall submit documents related to reimbursement claims under goods and
services, including original and translated materials for translation services, and
applicable invoices for other goods and services, upon request by the AOC.
The items listed below are common goods and services that courts have used to
increase language access and will be improved for reimbursement.
• Translation services
• Telephonic interpreter services for events outside of court proceedings
• Portable video device(s) for video remote interpreting
• Equipment used for simultaneous interpretation
• Staff training on language access, interpreting, or bilingual skills
improvement A
• Interpreter scheduling software fees
• Printed signage for language assistance purposes
Items or services not listed above must be pre -approved (via email) by Language
Access and Interpreter Reimbursement Program Coordinator prior to purchase or
they may not qualify for reimbursement under the Program.
4. SCOPE OF REIMBURSEMENT FUNDING
Reimbursement payment under this Agreement will only be made to the Court
when the cost is paid out of the budget or budgets, in the case of multi -court
collaborative applicants of the Court responsible for full payment.
5. PAYMENT STRUCTURE
A. Reimbursement Rate
a) Spoken Language Interpreters
AOC will reimburse the Court 50% of the cost of AOC credentialed, or
otherwise court -qualified interpreters providing services under this
Agreement.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 12 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
b) Sign Language Interpreters
AOC will reimburse the Court 50% of the cost of certified interpreters
providing services under this Agreement.
c) High Priority Language Out of State Interpreters
AOC will reimburse the Court 25% of the cost of court credentialed, or
otherwise court -qualified interpreters that meet WA standards providing
services under this Agreement.
d) Staff Interpreters (Salaried Staff
AOC will reimburse the Court 50% of the cost of AOC credentialed staff
interpreters.
e) Contracted Interpreters
The cost of credentialed or otherwise qualified contract interpreters who
are paid other than on an hourly basis, for example, on a half -day or flat
rate basis, will be reimbursed at 50%.
f) Remote Interpreting
AOC will reimburse the Court 50% of the cost of using credentialed or
otherwise qualified interpreters providing interpretation by telephone or
video for legal proceedings.
g) Cancellation Fees
AOC will reimburse the Court 50% of cancellation fees paid to interpreter.
h) Goods and Services
AOC will reimburse the Court 100% of the approved cost of goods and
services related to language access in courts. These services must not be
part of a legal court proceeding.
Bo Travel Time and Mileage
AOC will reimburse the Court 50% of the cost of interpreter travel time and
mileage.
Interpreter travel time is reimbursable if a required party fails to appear. "Failure
to appear" means a non-appearance by the LEP or deaf or hard of hearing
client, attorneys, witnesses, or any necessary party to a hearing, thereby
necessitating a cancellation or continuance of the hearing. The Court can be
reimbursed for 50% of the cancellation fees paid to the interpreter.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 13 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
I ON'm
The Language Access and Interpreter Reimbursement Program (LAIRP) establishes
this policy to expand reimbursement eligibility for interpreter services provided by out of
state court credentialed interpreters for designated High Priority Languages when a
Washington state court credentialed interpreter is not readily available. Reimbursement
is subject to the eligibility requirements, reimbursement rate, and other terms and
conditions established in this policy.
MO M
The purpose of this policy is to strengthen statewide language access support for
Washington courts by establishing an equitable, sustainable, and data -driven framework
for reimbursing eligible out of state interpreter services under LAIRP. The policy is
designed to promote meaningful language access in courts by expanding
reimbursement support while reaffirming Washington state court credentialed
interpreters as the preferred resource whenever reasonably available.
This policy applies to:
• Courts participating in the LAIRP;
• Interpreter services provided by court credentialed out of state interpreters;
• Languages designated as High Priority Languages;
• Interpreter events occurring on or after July 1, 2026.
This policy does not apply to languages for which Washington state does not have a
court credentialed interpreter. Reimbursement for interpreter services in those
languages continues to be administered as outlined in the Interagency Agreement.
For the purpose of this policy:
Court Credentialed Interpreter means an interpreter who holds an active court
interpreter credential issued by a state's administrative office of the courts or a
nationally recognized credentialing body.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 14 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
In State Court Credentialed Interpreter means an interpreter who acquired
Washington state court credential (either certified or registered) by completing the steps
required by Washington State Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC).
Out of State Court Credentialed Interpreter means an interpreter credentialed by
another state's court system who does not currently hold a Washington state court
interpreter credential through certification, registration, or reciprocity.
Reciprocity means the process by which an interpreter who is court credentialed in .
another state and in good standing may apply to obtain a court credentialed interpreter
status in Washington state. Their credential was initially obtained from a non -
Washington state and AOC grants reciprocity credentialing status through a
requirement standard verification process.
High Priority Language means a language designated by the AOC as eligible for
reimbursement under this policy based on an assessment of language access needs. A
high priority language is identified as requiring additional reimbursement support to
address a significant gap between language demand and interpreter supply.
Reasonable Effort means a documented process taken by the court to secure a
Washington state court credentialed interpreter before utilizing an out of state court
credentialed interpreter.
AOC shall annually designate High Priority Languages using LAIRD data and
established evaluation criteria.
The criteria may include interpreter utilization, statewide interpreter availability,
language demand, and other factors determined by the AOC to ensure equitable
resource distribution.
High Priority Languages shall be reviewed periodically, and the list of included
languages may be revised by AOC based on available data and program needs.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 15 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
For Fiscal Year 2027, the following languages are designated as High Priority
Languages.
Arabic Burmese
H mong Dari
Hungarian
Kurdish - Kurmanji
Laotian
Marshallese
Nepali
Swahili
Tigrinya
Ukrainian
Urdu
VI.Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for reimbursement, all of the following conditions must be met:
A. Interpreter service is provided for a designated High Priority Language.
B. Court has made reasonable efforts to secure a Washington state court
credentialed interpreter.
C. A Washington state court credentialed interpreter was not reasonably available
for the assignment.
D. The out of state interpreter holds credential status that aligns with Washington
state's court credential standards.
E. The out of state interpreter has been provided with the Code of Professional
Responsibility for Judiciary Interpreters (GR1 1.2).
VII.Court Responsibilities
To claim reimbursement for interpreter services provided by an out of state interpreter,
the Court is responsible for:
A. Verifying the out of state interpreter's credential based on the Out of State
Interpreter Credential Verification Guideline (Exhibit II).
B. Providing the interpreter with the Code of Professional Responsibility for
Judiciary Interpreters (GR1 1.2).
C. Attesting interpreter's court credential status through the LAIRP application
portal.
D. Maintaining documentation supporting eligibility requirements.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 16 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
E. Submitting complete, accurate, and timely invoices in accordance with LAIRP
requirements and applicable deadlines.
At any point, if an interpreter's credential attestation is determined to be inaccurately
reported by the court even after the invoice has been paid, AOC reserves the right to
revoke the reimbursement approval. In such cases, if reimbursement has occurred,
courts shall be required to return the applicable reimbursement payment to AOC.
VIII.Reimbursement
Subject to court's available budget and overall program funds, LAIRP shall reimburse
twenty-five percent (25%) of the total out of state interpreter services eligible expenses.
Reimbursement rate may be revised at the discretion of the AOC to meet program
needs.
Eligible expenses include:
A. Interpreter service fees;
B. Travel expenses, including accommodation, mileage, per diem, and other travel
related costs consistent with applicable Washington state travel regulations; and
C. Other AOC pre -approved expenses directly related to the provision of interpreter
services.
Reimbursement may be limited by reimbursement caps, program funding, or other fiscal
requirements established by the AOC.
IX.Exceptions
AOC may approve exceptions to the policy on a case -by -case basis to support critical
language access needs.
Requests for exception shall be submitted in writing prior to scheduling the interpreter.
Courts may submit the request to the Program Manager, Tae Yoon at
tae.yoon(a-courts.wa.gov.
X.Review and Updates
AOC may periodically review this policy to ensure continued alignment with program
objectives, statewide interpreter needs, and fiscal sustainability.
Revisions may be adopted as necessary. AOC shall notify the courts via email
notification of any revisions.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 17 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
EXHIBIT 11
This document provides Washington courts with standardized procedures for
implementing the Out of State Interpreter Reimbursement Policy. Its purpose is to
ensure that language access provided by out of state court credentialed interpreters
meets established Washington state standards and qualifications. It serves as a step-
by-step resource for courts to verify out of state court interpreter credentials, document
compliance with policy requirements, and submit reimbursement requests under the
Language Access and Interpreter Reimbursement Program (LAIRP).
II.Washington State Court credentialed Standards
Washington state has two court credential types depending on the language:
• Certified Interpreter
• Registered Interpreter
In order for an interpreter to be credentialed in Washington state, the interpreter must:
1. Successfully pass the National Center for State Courts (NCSC) written exam with
a minimum score of 80% or higher
2. Complete the interpreter orientation provided by the AOC
3. Successfully pass the oral requirement
• Certified Interpreter: A passing score of 70% or higher on the NCSC oral
exam on all three sections; sight, consecutive, and simultaneous
interpretation
• Registered Interpreter: English Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) score 49 and
above, Foreign Language OPI score superior and above from WA AOC
approved testing companies for languages that do not have an NCSC oral
exam
4. Complete the mandatory Ethics and Protocol Training provided by the AOC
5. Successfully pass a background check performed by WA State Patrol and
complete the Interpreter Oath
WA state court credentialed interpreters need to fulfill a biennial compliance
requirement to maintain an active WA AOC credential status.
An interpreter who acquired credential status originally in another state may become
court credentialed in Washington state once they complete the required reciprocity
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 18 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
process. In such case, the interpreter is considered a Washington state court
credentialed interpreter regardless of their current place of residence.
1111I.Verifying an Out of State Court Interpreter Credential
Prior to scheduling an out of state interpreter, the Court is responsible for verifying the
interpreter's credentials. Because credentialing systems vary among states, courts
should further verify that the interpreter's credential in another state aligns with
Washington state credential standards.
The following process is intended to assist courts in completing the interpreter
credential verification;
Step 1-Identify Language
Identify language and determine whether it is considered a certified or registered
language. A list of credentialed languages can be found on the AOC website.
Step 2 - Identify Interpreter's Credential
• Identify the interpreter's credential type and the issuing state.
• Credential types across states include, but are not limited to, Master,
Certified, Registered, Qualified, Conditionally Approved, Advanced,
Journey, Provisionally Approved, Authorized, Proficient.
Step 3 - Verify the Credential
Verify whether the credential is active and in good standing. This may be
completed by:
• Checking the official court interpreter registry maintained by the issuing
state. Courts may refer to each state's interpreter roster link, if available,
on the Nationwide Interpreter Resource List (Exhibit 111).
• Contacting a court from the issuing state the interpreter has worked in.
• Requesting official documentation issued by the credentialing authority.
Step 4 - Evaluate Credential Equivalency to Washington standards
Evaluate whether the interpreter's credential from the issuing state is comparable
to Washington state court credential standards outlined in Section 11.
• When making this determination, courts should evaluate the credentialing
requirements as a whole.
• Difference in credential types, titles, or structure does not necessarily
indicate that a credential is not comparable to Washington standards.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 19 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
Similarly, the use of the same credential title such as `certified' or
registered' does not automatically mean that the credential is equivalent
to Washington state's credential requirements.
• Courts may refer to each state's language access website link on the
Nationwide Interpreter Resource List (Appendix B).
• If additional guidance is needed regarding a credential or an unfamiliar
credentialing structure, courts may contact the AOC Language Access
team before scheduling the interpreter and submitting a reimbursement
request.
Step 5- Maintain Documentation
Retain any documentation supporting the credential verification process.
• Documentation may include registry searches, credential verification
records, correspondence, or other information used during the verification
process.
• Courts may be requested to provide supporting documentation as part of
the LAIRP reimbursement review or program administration.
To request reimbursement, Courts must report the interpreter event through the LAIRP
application portal in accordance with established reporting procedures.
Specifically, to claim reimbursement under the Out of State Interpreter Reimbursement
Policy, Court shall attest that:
• The out of state interpreter's credential has been verified.
• Interpreter's credentials align with Washington state standards.
• A Washington state court credentialed interpreter was not reasonably available
for the interpreter event.
By submitting the reimbursement request and required attestation, the Court certifies
that the verification was completed in accordance with these guidelines and necessary
supporting documentation has been retained. Courts are not required to submit
supporting documentation through the LAIRP application portal.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 2® of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
EXHIBIT III
NATIONWIDE INTERPRETER RESOURCE LIST
This list can also be found on the LAIRD Application Portal
The links provided below are intended as a general reference to assist courts in locating publicly available
information about interpreter rosters and language access websites in other states. These links are
maintained by each state and may change without notice. Courts should verify interpreter credentials,
qualifications, and other applicable requirements directly with the relevant state.
State Interpreter Roster Website
Alabama Alabama Administrative Office of Courts Alabama Administrative Office of Courts
Alaska
Verification by email
q- s 3
i 3 o � t L ,.d. ; 2 a i s
Z u ' £ s ;q v > Arizona
Arizona
Verification by email
Informationand
Interpretei Resources
Arkansas
�33.�.;. ¢.-5 sue: a f4 ff ,?"ro sx"'[�'+� r 3 " £� 3"i :y qp g� h�ig`'2q � �:,. ' ^�, o " q%r
{ i $4dx5 }EE SJ63.5,'e b ���x' dj"� 38 �3w
x� court-
� 3 � �'4 � �'' �'+. � ^ f ,� >a., g* �.,, ,yam, � � F 69m"� @��"s�: '2 `;
3 §2 Y 4 g 3 C' 03'd i .: 4
Office
O ce o�_ C � ...... � Ser i � vR�«�
°t
?y'`'Q¢ was ss Q} .
California
SoarcB for are Interpreter an uaQ,
., r h .,�..,. � � N�� �.,,...�.,. .� �
i � c �= � _ ° �
Home �1 � t� � � ,mac q S � i --
Access Services
Colorado
Managing & �eta ..+w...�.�.��..�Cm.,,.od,.- nta.... cr
-��Lg lorado Judicial
Information
Branch
Connecticut
Verification by email
Lirnited Enal roficien uicial
_..�
Branch
Delaware Court lntteEL.,1re-.t!,,
Delaware
Available upon request
Administrative Off
� � �x 4 F � i ,.0+'�S � w � j ��' iy .9,m°�9 � �9$g
'S < 5 eCourts �9 e l a '�T�B °.r 3� �4d C o u s- 11a 'n'"-.d of
Delaware
Delaware
in .g. £ e £d l n t w+.333.HHH�.4 p......... ��+''++- _r { i r«j++....s.0 d a
Florida
Inter r x
-CourtInt get C =art er vices er ice
Co
- Florida Courts
Georgia
S .gyp 9" � 'R 3 �.j :"' i �y § 2 3 t yy q �
, %? .to ..e 5 sf l q 3 3 " S 4
�o�.c o die
X � „� yam' .p s i �� 1 .£s
olmi i e aid a4rete 8j d 3 �S - i
Ce o It:�; �, �-;ceo
Professionals
REV August 2026 AOC3530 Page 21 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
Hawaii
Find a Cou, Interpreter Hawaii
4
Judiciary I Judiciary Lqn Assislance
Idaho
h "LL r -, s - hf�i - _te,
haf
s./other-court-rosters
court.s/lan� gg 'may
cesq�
Find a _La-m
Illinois
Illinois IntpDreter RegLsjr�jx
Access Program in the
Illinois Courts.�i�ten
Indiana
Intpr refer - Search
Office of Judicial Administration: Lan 21
LA .,,cress
Iowa
Find an Interveter Judii-ial
Court tD�tr;-L nch
Branch
Kansas
No certification requirements
h t t Q ��-31
Interpreter
y+
h tt 2s'k.,vcco
Kentucky
Pryq�r, Lan - _ugar e-.
g _g_
Lan e,--s - Kentuckv Couirt of
Access/Pages/!Find-arli-iri'Le rr)re'tt«I -C-'Px
Justice
hft�,,,- ://mim.Lasgc _n /qourt, intpfpreLers,/,',=
Louisiana
ASC-.'.Interpreter Realis
Office of La[,_ ouisigrronia.
tr,.,., . o- cd -fj,
-er- -i
LnAe=Preter and --Irraq-,firc)n S
Maine
Verification by email
Maine Judiciai
Branr%h
t g.r�-//s�er c c h tI t erh�cu�sedue',,r ,com/
111ar,Maryland
n-Lagua
bin/reports,c
h t �t pq � L�hxjvy !,,L-v�Aumia�ass,- �ov�frnfo-
Massachusetts
d-,,-z,,,-.ailsilmassachusetts-tria',,-court-
'--e7cs
Trial Court Office of Lgnaqggg�-Ac,'.,
-roster-orr-
Mass,'
introduction
Michigan
Certified I
F or tei.,q n nr' ggqg!2j.L_
LP Lro jra—n j
Minnesota
Court Interpreters Search
mncourts.g
I
Mississippi
htt s://courlbs
p
State of Mississipp
er/reaistr t. 1
Judiciary
Missouri
''sour i F u, r-
Americans with Disabilitle
n s Act
Interpreter Roster
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 22 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
Montana
Verification by email
inter2rrstars J Montana ni e d
-LqL..
States District Court
h.tt s:/I/ne bras �gdi-c ig LID flprogrqs-
P Lin
Nebraska
ser�liceshnterprate s/stat pwide-rtrlis-,-Lei--
n a ass � eJudicial
interpreters --Branch
Nevada Ceftified Courl, Inter,,.-)ret.er Program
Nevada
NVCCIP Roster 5,2026
0ve!j%yL!,eAi
Lj_l
Administrative Office of -the Courts
Lan Services!, New
New Hampshire
Verification by email
H a Ln,?,) s a I
Branch
4tt2_ ef a u 1-tUfi I
New Jersey
h1ttr s- Aj�nu.nLk j ai L�g±
service.s/reaistrv,odf
---------- _.- ......
Ll
ht✓s:/'/nrncenter-1,or1an(xja,, eacceess.ora/
New Mexico
crnflanau
s/enf'services
Online Multilc �,gaIJI.,anfalga -_q Ac%---.ess
,e-inter�-,lreter-serv;ice!�s,,-,I i rector
Training
New York
Verification by email
Laine g a, LL_
York Courfs
Office of Lanauagfe A c
North Carolina
Verification by email
Car
rolina Ju!di--ia
Bran"ch
North Dakota
None
North Dakota Cgg
Lr.
h,t,tc,,s://www.suoremecoui,f,..oh, c
Ohio
Lan, u,. erAces 'ection SuDrerne Couirit
certificationu",rc
'0 of Oh'!
Oklahoma
'r Lt oS�cn,net/static/forrnsl/aoc f
Fo r rn;
orms/inter Bret eras 2
Oregon
reoon ire
s. g
R__4f
LO
a e s / d efa j I t, a s o,,
Interorp
LanquaggeAcq
Pennsylvania
n"Istration
Administ'ration I Unified Jijdidal ... Sy§„�
Unified Judicial �j� o" Pennsyiania
of PennsLxlvar ia
Rhode Island
Not publicly available
Pi-oarar-ns and Servic�11's
.............
South Carolina
InL-AgrL, 'Pr Q�,
�e�t '�ieqtoiy -_Sogth Carolina
Court Acr-r-ss - SoLith Carolina Jaud!
'cial
J_udlcial Branch
Branch
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 23 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
Luanied
uiagg!�AvqcesResourc _DUif
South Dakota
Verification by email
ig
J dc ysterC
Uis
https://tncourts.goy�;'
Court 1p, erp�ete�rsj erjr�ess i� P-drninistrative
Tennessee
i 12 LLe r-
r;
of
Office the
inter ureter
Lour ts
Texas
Find a Court IntLarl-L-aelt-gr -[qY
T J B Llll�rj
to
Find a Court lnteLr pre
etr
Cun rt awls
o
eters --nd
Vermont
Available upon request
Translators mont
Ver
Judiciary
s.gp_=4/courlild nin/anrjuldi�s/
Virginia
r ip
l g_
ro m, -s f, rft e r IL;e t
Court Svstem
shg.jtaeCoutC
W a i j2t o Strs - ourt
a sWashington
W h
InteriDreters
West Virginia
Verification by email
Access to
Wisconsin
s/inter
WisCr)nS,5in Colurt., ouft services -
preter/search.htm
For interrp ,reters
Wyoming
C o u rt I q t e r p r tt , S 1 6- 5 - "ily an, n!
Judicial Branch
Branch
District of
F gL CiLA e �p r e t e ptColumbia
ADA and Lanj- e Accessibility 1! Dis"rict of
Columbia
Courts
ColuMbia Courts
Virgin Islands
Verification by email
h
services
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 24 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
CR 11.2
CODE OF PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR
JUDICIARY INTERPRETERS
(a) Preamble. As officers of the court, interpreters must maintain high standards of
professional conduct that promote public trust and confidence in the administration of
justice. The purpose of this code is to establish standards of conduct that interpreters
must abide by in order to preserve the integrity and independence of the judicial system.
It establishes core ethical principles of interpreter conduct in all aspects of their
profession.
(b) Scope. The text of each rule is authoritative, while the comments provide
important guidance in understanding the rules.
(c) Applicability. All interpreters serving in the judicial system must abide by this
Code of Professional Responsibility.
(d) Compliance. Interpreters who violate the provisions of this code are subject to
disciplinary action and/or any other sanction that may be imposed by law.
(e) Definitions.
(1) Source language —the original language of the writer or speaker.
(2) Target language — the language of the receiving reader or listener.
(3) Register —the degree of formality of language.
(4) Sight translation — the rendering of a written document directly into a spoken or
signed language, not for purposes of producing a written document.
(f) Canons.
(1) Accuracy. Interpreters must reproduce in the target language the closest natural
equivalent of the source language message without altering it by means of addition,
omission, or explanation.
Comment
(1)[1] Interpreters are obligated to conserve every element of information contained in the
source and target languages. In doing so, they fulfill a twofold duty: (1) to ensure that
legal proceedings reflect in English precisely what is said or signed by limited English
proficient individuals and (2) to place limited English proficient individuals on an equal
linguistic footing with those who are fully proficient in English.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 25 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
(1)[2] Interpreters are required to apply their best skills and judgment to render, as
faithfully as reasonably possible, the meaning of what is said or signed, preserving the
style and register of speech, and the ambiguities and nuances of the source statement.
Everything must be interpreted, even if it appears nonresponsive, obscene, rambling, or
incoherent. This includes false starts and apparent misstatements. However, verbatim,
"word for word," or literal interpretation is inappropriate if it distorts the meaning of what
is said or signed.
Spoken language interpreters should convey the speaker's tone without reenacting or
mimicking the speaker's emotions or dramatic gestures. Sign language interpreters, on
the other hand, should employ visual cues, including facial expressions, body language,
and hand gestures, which are structural elements of sign languages.
(1)[3] Interpreters have the duty to immediately address any situation or condition that
impedes their ability to accurately interpret. Examples include, but are not limited to,
linguistic ambiguities, unfamiliar terms, inaudible speech, inability to see a speaker,
background noise or distraction, and pace of speech.
(1)[4] The obligation to preserve accuracy includes the interpreter's duty to correct any
substantive errors of interpretation as soon as possible. Interpreters should be prepared
to accept feedback, including challenges to their interpretation', in a professional and
impersonal manner.
(1)[5] Due to the difficulty of extemporaneously interpreting recordings (such as 911 calls),
the practice of doing so in court should be discouraged at all times. Rather, proper
transcripts and corresponding written translations should be prepared in advance. If
ordered by the presiding officer to interpret a recording in court, interpreters should
comply but state, on the record, that they cannot guarantee the accuracy of the
interpretation.
(1)[6] Interpreters should refrain from sight translating documents for the record. Rather,
written translations of documents offered in an evidentiary hearing should be prepared in
advance. If ordered by the presiding officer to sight translate such documents, interpreters
should comply but state, on the record, that they cannot guarantee the accuracy of the
sight translation.
(1)[7] The ethical responsibility to interpret accurately includes being prepared for
assignments. Interpreters are encouraged to obtain documents and other information
necessary to familiarize themselves with the nature and purpose of an assignment. Prior
preparation is described below; it is especially important when testimony or documents
include highly specialized terminology and subject matter.
Preparation may include but is not limited to:
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 26 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
(i) reviewing relevant documents, such as criminal complaints, police reports, briefs,
witness lists, jury instructions, prior depositions, etc.;
(ii) asking interpreters previously involved in the case for information on language use
or style; or
(iii) asking attorneys involved in the case for additional relevant information.
(2) Competence. Interpreters must not knowingly accept any assignment beyond their
skill level. If at any point, before or during an assignment, they have reservations about
their ability to satisfy an assignment competently, they must immediately disclose this to
all parties and, if applicable, to the court.
In their professional capacity, interpreters must not give legal or other advice or engage
in any activity that may be construed as a service other than interpreting or translating.
Comment
(2)[1] Interpreters are duty bound to inquire about the assignment in advance and assess
their competence to render services.
(2)[2] Interpreters are not qualified to give written or oral counsel about a legal matter that
could affect the rights and responsibilities of the person receiving the advice. GR 24 sets
forth what constitutes the practice of law.
(2)[3] Interpreters should maintain and expand competence in their field through
professional development. Professional development includes steady practice,
professional training, ongoing education, terminology research, regular and frequent
interaction with colleagues and specialists in related fields, and staying abreast of new
technologies, current issues, laws, policies, rules, and regulations that affect their
profession.
(2)[4] Interpreters should know and follow established protocols for delivering interpreting
services. When speaking in English, interpreters should speak at a -volume that enables
them to be heard throughout the courtroom. They should interpret. in the first person and
refer to themselves in the third person.
(3) Honesty and Integrity. Interpreters have an inviolable duty to provide honest services
in which their behavior upholds the values outlined in this code. They must accurately
represent their credentials, training, and relevant experience. Interpreters must not
engage in conduct that impedes their compliance with this code or allow another to induce
or encourage them to violate the law or this code.
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 27 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
Comment
(3)[1] It is essential that interpreters present a complete and truthful account of their
credentials, training, and relevant experience prior to an assignment so that their ability
to satisfy it competently can be fairly evaluated.
(4) Impartiality and Neutrality. Interpreters must faithfully render the source message
without allowing their own views to interfere. They must refrain from conduct that may
give an appearance of bias and must disclose any real or potential conflict of interest to
all parties and the court, if applicable, as soon as they become aware of it.
Comment
(4)[1] Interpreters should strive for professional detachment. They should uphold
impartiality by avoiding verbal and nonverbal displays of personal attitudes, prejudices,
emotions, or opinions. Interpreters must faithfully render all statements, even those they
find personally objectionable, without allowing their own views or opinions to interfere.
(4)[2] As officers of the court, interpreters serve the court and the public, regardless of
whether publicly or privately retained. Interpreters must uphold neutrality by avoiding any
behavior that creates the appearance of favoritism toward anyone. Interpreters should
maintain professional relationships with persons using their services, discourage
personal dependence on the interpreter, and avoid participation in the proceedings in any
capacity other than providing interpreter services. During the course of the proceedings,
interpreters should not converse with parties, witnesses, jurors, attorneys, or friends or
relatives of any party, except in the discharge of their official functions.
(4)[3] Interpreters must not serve in any matter in which they have an interest, financial
or otherwise, in the outcome, unless a specific exception is allowed by the judicial officer
for good cause and noted on the record. Interpreters must not solicit or accept gifts or
gratuities from any of the parties, even as a social courtesy, in order to maintain the
appearance of neutrality. Interpreters must disclose to the parties and/or the court any
circumstance that creates a potential conflict of interest, including but not limited to the
following:
(i) the interpreter is a friend, associate, or relative of a party, witness, victim, or
counsel;
(ii) the interpreter or the interpreter's friend, associate, or relative has a financial
interest in the case at issue, a shared financial interest with a party to the proceeding, or
any other interest that might be affected by the outcome of the case;
(iii) the interpreter has served in an investigative capacity for any party involved in the
case;
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 28 of 29
Docusign Envelope ID: 350D7470-95CC-8AB3-8059-02D97EDB3462
(iv) the interpreter has previously been retained by a law enforcement agency to assist
in the preparation of the criminal case at issue;
(v) the interpreter is an attorney in the case . at issue; or
(vi) the interpreter has previously been retained for employment by one of the parties.
The existence of any one of the abovementioned circumstances should be evaluated by
the parties and the court but should not automatically disqualify an interpreter from
providing services. If an actual or perceived conflict of interest exists, the appropriate
authorities should determine whether it is appropriate for the interpreter to withdraw based
on the totality of the circumstances.
(5) Confidentiality. Interpreters must not divulge privileged or other confidential
information obtained in their professional capacity. They must refrain from making any
public statement on matters in which they serve.
Comment
(5)[1 ] Privileged communications take place within the context of a protected relationship,
such as that between an attorney and client, a husband and wife, a priest and penitent,
and a doctor and patient. The law often protects against forced disclosure of such
conversations. Interpreters are bound to maintain the confidentiality of all privileged
communications.
(5)[2] Interpreters are also routinely privy to communications that, while not necessarily
privileged by law, are conveyed in confidence. In order to preserve the integrity of the
judicial process, interpreters have an ongoing duty to refrain from disclosing information
obtained in their professional capacity. This duty is consistent with CJC 2.10.
[Adopted effective November 17, 1989. Original Rule 11.1 was renumbered as Rule 11.2
effective September 1, 2005; Amended effective April 26, 2016; December 18, 2018;
March 12, 2019.] 1
REV August 2026 AOC3580 Page 29 of 29
Interagency Agreement Bets-reen Washington State AOC — AOC 3580 and Grant County
Juvenfle Court for Language Access and Interpreter Reimbursement Program (LAIRP)
Date.-, `�' /S' Z(o
Caitlin E. Manell
Clerk of the Board
Fi vw'v-
'WSBA #47989
FtDeputy County Prosecutor's OfficeProsecuting Attornel
COMMISSIONERS
GRANT COUNTY, WASHINGTON
Kevin R. Burge Chair
A1.10-10
R&-Jo �,iceicChair
C,acu-
S-cj
Cindy Carter, Member