US Laws, Codes, Statutes & Cases

CODE TITLE XXVI.  TRIAL PROCEDURE

§270.  Interpreters for deaf or severely hearing-impaired persons

A.  In all criminal prosecutions, where the accused is deaf or severely hearing-impaired, he shall have the proceedings of the trial interpreted to him in a language that he can understand by a qualified interpreter appointed by the court.  In all cases where the mental condition of a person is being considered and where such person may be committed to a mental institution, and where such person is deaf or severely hearing-impaired, all of the court proceedings pertaining to him shall be interpreted by a qualified interpreter appointed by the court.  The qualification of an interpreter as an expert witness is governed by the Louisiana Code of Evidence.  

B.(1)  In any case where an interpreter is required to be appointed by the court under this Section, the court shall not commence proceedings until the appointed interpreter is in court.  

(2)  The interpreter appointed in accordance with this Section shall take an oath or affirmation that he will make a true interpretation to the deaf or severely hearing-impaired person accused or being examined of all the proceedings of his case in a language that he understands, and that he will repeat said deaf or severely hearing-impaired person's answer to questions to counsel, court or jury, to the best of his skill and judgment.  

(3)  Interpreters appointed in accordance with this Section shall receive for their services an amount to be fixed by the judge presiding.  When travel of the interpreter is necessary, all of the actual expenses of travel, lodging, and meals incurred by the interpreter in connection with the case in which he is appointed to serve shall be paid at the same rate applicable to state employees.  

Added by Acts 1968, No. 320, §1.  Acts 1988, No. 515, §5, eff. Jan. 1, 1989; Acts 1989, No. 109, §2.