Minn. R. Crim. P. 5.02 (2026)

A defendant is disabled in communication if, due to a hearing, speech or other communications disorder or difficulty in speaking or comprehending the English language, the defendant cannot fully understand the proceedings or any charges made, or is incapable of presenting or assisting in the presentation of a defense.

If a defendant is disabled in communication, the judge must appoint a qualified interpreter under Minn. Gen. R. Prac. 8 for the District Courts to assist the defendant throughout the proceedings. The proceedings that require a qualified interpreter include any proceeding attended by the defendant.