Language Assistance Plan
Washington State law uploads the rights of deaf persons and of other persons who because of impairment of hearing or speech are unable to readily understand or communicate spoken English and who consequently cannot be fully protected in legal proceedings unless qualified interpreters are available to assist them. Washington State law also secures the rights of persons who because of a non-English speaking cultural background are unable to readily understand or communicate in English and who consequently cannot be fully protected in legal proceedings unless qualified interpreters are available to assist them.
Municipal courts are guided by the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 2.42 and 2.43 as well as the Language Assistance Plan (PDF, 226KB) (LAP). Mercer Island Municipal Court provides interpreter services, free of charge, to limited English proficient (LEP) as well as deaf and hearing-impaired persons. To request an interpreter, please contact the Mercer Island Municipal Court at 206-275-7604.
What is the Difference Between an Interpreter and Translator?
An interpreter is orally conveying a message from one language to another. Interpretation is spoken or signed.
A translator is transferring a written text (books, articles, forms) from one language to another. Translation is written.
Court Interpreters are Not
- Advocates
- Consultants on culture or customs
- Translators
The rules for court interpreters can be found under the Code of Professional Responsibility for Judiciary Interpreters.
If you have any questions or concerns about interpreters or would like to be added as an interpreting contact then feel free to notify the court either online or by phone 206-275-7604.
