Narrative of Resolution:
Authorize interpreter services for Grand Jury proceedings
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If Resolution requires expenditure of County Funds, provide the following information:
Amount to be authorized by Resolution: Per Diem Rates: Full-Day $385.00/Half Day $220.00
Are funds already budgeted? Yes
If ‘Yes,’ specify appropriation code(s): A-1165-47-4709
If ‘No,’ specify proposed source of funds: Click or tap here to enter text.
Specify Compliance with Procurement Procedures:
RESOLUTION INTRODUCED BY PUBLIC SAFETY AND LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMITTEE TO AUTHORIZE INTERPRETER SERVICES FOR GRAND JURY PROCEEDINGS
WHEREAS, grand jury proceedings are conducted under the authority of the New York State Unified Court System, and the District Attorney, in fulfilling his prosecutorial obligations, is responsible for the presentation of evidence and witnesses and for coordinating necessary services to ensure the integrity, accuracy, and lawful administration of such proceedings; and
WHEREAS, individuals participating in grand jury proceedings, including witnesses, may have limited English proficiency or require sign language interpretation in order to fully and accurately communicate; and
WHEREAS, the use of qualified interpreters is essential to maintaining the integrity, accuracy, and fairness of grand jury proceedings; and
WHEREAS, interpreter services required for grand jury proceedings are necessarily arranged by the District Attorney in the course of performing his official duties, and such services are appropriately considered part of the operational functions of the District Attorney’s Office and a proper charge upon County resources; and
WHEREAS, the New York State Unified Court System maintains an approved list of qualified language interpreters and sign language interpreters who meet established standards for court interpretation services; and
WHEREAS, it is the intent of the County to ensure that only appropriately qualified interpreters are utilized for grand jury proceedings and that compensation for such services is consistent with New York State guidelines;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that for purposes of grand jury proceedings only, all language interpreters and sign language interpreters retained shall be selected from the New York State Unified Court System’s approved list of court interpreters; and be it further
RESOLVED, that compensation for such interpreter services shall be paid in accordance with the applicable per diem rate as established and periodically updated by the New York State Office of Court Administration, Division of Financial Management; and be it further
RESOLVED, that this resolution shall apply solely to grand jury proceedings and shall take February 1, 2026.