An interpreter is subject to the provisions of this Code relating to qualification as an expert and the administration of an oath or affirmation to make a true and complete rendition of all communications made during the interpretive process to the best of the interpreter's knowledge and belief.
§ 2604.Interpreters
Chapter 40: Oklahoma Evidence Code · Last amended November 1, 2002 · Last verified August 3, 2026
In one sentenceSection 2604 subjects an interpreter to the Evidence Code's rules for qualifying as an expert and requires an oath or affirmation to render a true and complete translation of all communications to the best of the interpreter's knowledge and belief.
Full Text of § 2604
Amendment History
Laws 1978, SB 276, c. 285, § 604, eff. 10/1/1978; Amended by Laws 2002, HB 1939, c. 468, §44, eff. 11/1/2002.
Plain-English Summary
An interpreter doesn't just show up and translate -- Section 2604 treats the interpreter's qualifications the same way the Code treats an expert witness's, and requires the same kind of oath or affirmation any witness takes, tailored to the interpreter's role: a promise to render a true and complete rendition of all communications made during the interpretive process, to the best of the interpreter's knowledge and belief.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a court interpreter qualified the same way as an expert witness?
Yes. Section 2604 subjects an interpreter to the Code's provisions on qualifying as an expert.
What must an interpreter swear to before interpreting testimony?
A true and complete rendition of all communications made during the interpretive process, to the best of the interpreter's knowledge and belief.
Does this section apply only to interpreters for deaf or LEP witnesses?
No, it applies to interpreters generally, covering qualification and the oath requirement for anyone interpreting in a proceeding.
Source & verification. Section text is reproduced verbatim from
Title 12 of the Oklahoma Statutes, enacted by the Oklahoma Legislature.
Last verified August 3, 2026.
· Official source
Also known as: court interpreter qualification oklahomaFRE 604 oklahomainterpreter oath evidence code12 O.S. § 2604