Notice regarding new Rule 5, Interpreters, effective July 2, 2008
The Nebraska Workers' Compensation Court has adopted a new rule governing the appointment of interpreters in proceedings before the court. Rule 5 became effective July 2, 2008. Under the new rule, a party needing an interpreter at any proceeding before the court will be required to allege such need as a separate allegation in a pleading titled "Request for Interpreter."
The new rule provides that the employer in the case shall arrange for the interpreter. At the time of the hearing or trial, the employer will be required to file an affidavit affirming that the interpreter has been selected in accordance with the priorities for use of an interpreter established under Rule 2 of the Nebraska Supreme Court Rules Relating to Court Interpreters (now codified at Neb. Ct. R. § 6-703).
The fees and expenses of an interpreter appointed by the court must be authorized by the judge before whom the proceeding takes. The interpreter will need to complete the Statement for Payment of Interpreters form approved by the State Court Administrator, and submit the completed form to the judge before whom the proceeding takes place for authorization.