NIC Ethical Decision-Making & Professional Conduct 4

Question 1

A courtroom interpreter is asked by the defense attorney—outside of the proceeding—to explain what the Deaf defendant said during a private consultation. The interpreter should:

Accepted Answer

Refuse, as attorney-client consultations are privileged and confidential regardless of who asks

Answer

Attorney-client privilege covers interpreters who facilitate those conversations, so disclosure to anyone—even the attorney asking to recap—could be inappropriate without proper legal process.

Question 2

Which of the following MOST accurately describes 'role boundaries' in NIC ethical standards?

Accepted Answer

Interpreters should limit their role to facilitating communication and avoid taking on functions outside that scope

Answer

NIC ethical standards define the interpreter's role as communication facilitator, and expanding beyond that role compromises neutrality and professionalism.

Question 3

An interpreter discovers that a colleague has been romantically involved with a Deaf client they interpret for regularly. What is the most appropriate professional response?

Accepted Answer

Discuss the concern with the colleague and, if unresolved, consider reporting to a supervisory or ethics body

Answer

Romantic relationships with clients violate professional boundaries; the appropriate ethical response involves direct peer conversation followed by formal reporting if needed.

Question 4

During an interpreted classroom lecture, a student asks the interpreter to explain a concept the professor just covered. The interpreter should:

Accepted Answer

Direct the student to ask the professor directly and interpret that exchange

Answer

Answering questions independently oversteps the interpreter's role; directing the student to the professor preserves proper communication channels.

Question 5

An interpreter who is Deaf themselves is asked to interpret a complex spoken English lecture into ASL. Before accepting, they should:

Accepted Answer

Assess whether their spoken English reception is sufficient for the specific content and venue acoustics

Answer

Competence assessment applies to all interpreters regardless of Deaf or hearing status; the specific assignment demands must be evaluated honestly.

(NIC) National Interpreter Certification Practice Test

(NIC) National Interpreter Certification Practice Test

NIC Ethical Decision-Making & Professional Conduct 4