§ 8B-1. Definitions; right to interpreter; determination of competence. - North Carolina Statutes

Chapter 8B.

Interpreters for Deaf Persons.

§ 8B‑1.  Definitions;right to interpreter; determination of competence.

As used in this Chapter:

(1)        "Appointingauthority" means the presiding judge or clerk of superior court in ajudicial proceeding, or a hearing officer, examiner, commissioner, chairman,presiding officer or similar official in a legislative or administrativeproceeding.

(2)        "Deafperson" means a person whose hearing impairment is so significant that theindividual is impaired in processing linguistic information through hearing,with or without amplification.

(3)        "Qualifiedinterpreter" means an interpreter licensed under Chapter 90D of theGeneral Statutes. If the appointing authority finds that a licensed interpreteris not available, an unlicensed interpreter may be called and used as aqualified interpreter if the interpreter's actual qualifications have otherwisebeen determined to be adequate for the present need. In no event will aninterpreter be considered qualified if the interpreter is unable to communicateeffectively with and simultaneously and accurately interpret for the deafperson.

Adeaf person who does not utilize sign language may request an aural/oralinterpreter. Before this interpreter is appointed, the appointing authorityshall satisfy itself that the aural/oral interpreter is competent to interpretthe proceedings to the deaf person and to present the testimony, statements,and any other information tendered by the deaf person. (1981, c. 937, s. 1; 1997‑443,s. 11A.118(a); 2002‑182, s. 2; 2003‑56, s. 3.)