This code of conduct developed by the National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators is a model code used by interpreters across the country. Law enforcement officials, courts, attorneys and advocates using interpreters often ask/require that interpreters with whom they work agree to follow this code when providing interpretation and translation services.

The function of court interpreters and translators is to remove the language barrier to the extent possible, so that such persons’ access to justice is the same as that of similarly-situated English speakers for whom no such barrier exists. The degree of trust that is placed in court interpreters and the magnitude of their responsibility necessitate high, uniform ethical standards that will both guide and protect court.