Policy background Procedures in Courts and Tribunals British Sign Language interpreters for deaf jurors
Section 196 amends the common law to permit the presence of a British Sign Language ("BSL") interpreter in the jury deliberation room to assist a profoundly deaf juror in proceedings before a court. The trial judge will have a duty to consider such a reasonable adjustment and, if satisfied the BSL interpreter’s services will enable the person to act effectively as a juror, will affirm the summons. Offences relating to research and sharing research during a trial period will apply to BSL interpreters as they apply to jurors, with a new offence created for circumstances where a BSL interpreter intentionally interferes in or influences the deliberations of the jury.