Mississippi § 9-21-79 - Determination of need for an interpreter.

§ 9-21-79. Determination of need for an interpreter.

An interpreter is needed and a court interpreter shall be appointed when the judge determines, after an examination of a party or witness, that: (a) the party cannot understand and speak English well enough to participate fully in the proceedings and to assist counsel; or (b) the witness cannot speak English so as to be understood directly by counsel, court and jury. The court should examine a party or witness on the record to determine whether an interpreter is needed if: A party or counsel requests such an examination; It appears to the court that the party or witness may not understand and speak English well enough to participate fully in the proceedings; or If the party or witness requests an interpreter. The fact that a person for whom English is a second language knows some English should not prohibit that individual from being allowed to have an interpreter. After the examination, the court should state its conclusion on the record, and the file in the case shall be clearly marked and data entered electronically when appropriate by court personnel to ensure that an interpreter will be present when needed in any subsequent proceeding. Upon a request by the non-English speaking person, by counsel, or by any other officer of the court, the court shall determine whether the interpreter provided is able to communicate accurately with and translate information to and from the non-English speaking person. If it is determined that the interpreter cannot perform these functions, the court shall provide the non-English speaking person with another interpreter.