2025 Session Last amended: 2005 session

§ 611.30 — Right to Interpreter, State Policy

Plain-Language Summary

Minnesota law declares that people with communication disabilities cannot have their rights fully protected without qualified interpreters in legal proceedings. Sections 611.30 through 611.34 set up a system for appointing interpreters so these individuals can understand proceedings and participate in their own defense.

611.30 RIGHT TO INTERPRETER, STATE POLICY.

It is hereby declared to be the policy of this state that the constitutional rights of persons disabled in communication cannot be fully protected unless qualified interpreters are available to assist them in legal proceedings. It is the intent of sections 611.30 to 611.34 to provide a procedure for the appointment of interpreters to avoid injustice and to assist persons disabled in communication in their own defense.

History:

1969 c 955 s 1; 1981 c 131 s 4; 2005 c 56 s 1

History: History: 1969 c 955 s 1; 1981 c 131 s 4; 2005 c 56 s 1

Practical Notes

If you have a hearing impairment, speech disability, or difficulty understanding English, you have a right to an interpreter in court and other legal proceedings. This right is meant to ensure equal access to justice. The court must provide a qualified interpreter at no cost to you.

Source: Minnesota Office of the Revisor of Statutes