Guidelines and Information for Securing Sign Language Interpreter Services

1. It is important for the individual requesting the interpreter services to provide as much information as possible. The deaf/hard of hearing consumer should be asked about their preferred method of signed communication (American Sign Language-ASL, English-like signing, oral, tactile, etc.). This will help to avoid communication complications between the interpreter and consumer.
2. Advance notice in securing an interpreter is crucial. A minimum of two weeks notice prior to the event is strongly recommended. A request may not be filled if less than two weeks notice is given. If at all possible, alternate dates and times should be provided to increase the chance of securing an interpreter.
3. When contacting a referral agency, you will be asked to provide the following information: date, time, location, and expected duration of the event and the names of the parties involved. Please note that the standard policy is to secure two interpreters for events lasting two hours or more. Interpreting services for deaf-blind individuals always requires two interpreters, regardless of the duration of the assignment. Additionally, you may be asked to provide other pertinent information to better prepare the interpreter for the assignment (i.e. presentation outline, materials, audio or videotapes, song lyrics, etc.). Please note that individual referral agencies’ policies may vary.
4. Hourly rates and policies vary from agency to agency. You should expect to pay a two-hour minimum for any interpreting assignment. The rates average $46.00/hr. (per interpreter), with higher rates for legal settings and assignments in which less than 48 hours notice is given. Agencies also have specific policies regarding mileage/travel charges and cancellations.
5. Agencies are responsible for screening their interpreters for quality assurance. Concerns regarding the quality of interpreting services should be reported to the agency.

Interpreter Referral Agencies used by Delaware School for the Deaf

The Communication Connection, Inc. (CC)
Voice: (610) 272-4948

TTY: (610) 272-5452

The Deaf-Hearing Communication Center, Inc. (DHCC)

www.dhcc.org

Voice/TTY: (610) 604-0452

DEAFinitions & Interpreting

Voice/TTY: (302) 563-7714
E-mail: deafinitionsterp@yahoo.com

Other Agencies that are available

Deaf Services, Inc.
Voice/TTY: (609) 228-1900

Deaf Communication Services, Inc.
Voice: (302) 266-6877

Para -Plus Translation, Inc.

Voice: (302) 455-9834

Deaf Independent Living Association (DILA)
Voice/TTY: (410) 742-5052