A: Generally speaking, no. You should avoid using family members or friends. Rarely can these individuals remain impartial, and many are not “interpreters.” Many times deaf consumers/patients will bring family members or friends instead of making a request for interpreting services because they fear retaliation or cancellation of services. You can assure them you are prepared to make your services accessible by providing professional, impartial interpreting services. Many instances, case law determined a signing family member or friend was not a “reasonable accommodation.” Again, it is best practice to always ask the deaf customer or client, which accommodation they prefer, and what works best for them.

Q: Can I use a family member or friend of the deaf consumer/patient?