A qualified interpreter for the deaf or hard of hearing is a professional who facilitates communication between deaf and hearing individuals. A qualified interpreter is able to interpret effectively, accurately and impartially both receptively and expressively, using any necessary specialized vocabulary. The qualified interpreter has specialized training in interpreting from one language to another (ASL to English and English to ASL). Simply knowing both sign language and English does not qualify a person as an interpreter. The role of an interpreter is to accurately convey all messages between the individuals involved in the communication setting.
