Below is a list of frequently asked questions that RID receives regarding ethical concerns, the Ethical Practices System (EPS) and the NAD-RID Code of Professional Conduct. If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at ethics@rid.org or 571-384-5849 (VP).

1. What do I do if I have an ethical dilemma?

If you have questions regarding an ethical dilemma, first consult the NAD-RID Code of Professional Conduct and the RID Standard Practice Papers. While RID Headquarters staff and/or the Ethics Committee may not be able to resolve ethical questions directly, they can provide you with materials which may assist you or refer you to individuals or agencies who may be able to advise you. We ask that you be open to communicating with a mentor or trusted colleague.

2. What do I do if I’ve been subpoenaed to testify about something I interpreted? How does Tenet 1 (Confidentiality) apply to this situation?

These resources address subpoenas and testifying in court:

3. If I believe an interpreter violated the NAD-RID Code of Professional Conduct, how long do I have to file a complaint?

A complaint must be received by RID Headquarters within 90 days of the alleged violation.

4. If I file an ethics complaint, how long will the process take?

RID recognizes the importance of a timely resolution to ethical questions while at the same time affirming the need for the careful analysis and the detailed review of each case. Based on past experience and because each complaint requires individual attention, it takes an average of 7-8 months from the time a complaint is filed until a resolution is determined.

5. What if the interpreter is not a member of RID?

If an interpreter is not a member of RID, you cannot file a complaint against him/her through RID’s EPS. You may want to discuss the problem with the interpreter, and if that is not successful, consider talking to the employing entity that contracted or arranged for the interpreting service.

6. What if I need to file a complaint against an interpreting service agency?

The jurisdiction of the RID EPS covers individual interpreters who are required to adhere to the NAD-RID Code of Professional Conduct (CPC) while interpreting. NAD and RID do not regulate the business practices of service providers. However, starting in 2013, NAD and RID formed a joint task force to look into this situation. The Reputable Agency Task Force is charged with recommending solutions to addressing ethical practices of businesses.

7. Who can I contact at RID Headquarters about ethical matters?

If, after looking through the EPS Policy Manual, the NAD-RID Code of Professional Conduct, and the Official Complaint Form, you still have unanswered questions, please contact the Ethical Practices System Department at ethics@rid.org or 571-384-5849 (VP).

8. Who are the adjudicators?

The adjudicators are all members of RID and/or NAD, are certified interpreters (Deaf and hearing), are skilled in ethical decision-making and are knowledgeable in the field of interpreting and deafness. Adjudicators are given an orientation to the RID complaint structure and undergo training in the case review process. The pool of adjudicators shares a wealth of experience in the field.

QUESTIONS

For assistance, please contact the EPS staff:
(571) 384-5849 videophone
Ethics@rid.org