Language Access Program Overview

Program Description

Interpretation and translation are essential elements in providing access to the courts and maintaining the integrity of our system of justice. Meaningful language access allows people, regardless of their national origin or English language ability, to participate in court proceedings and programs.

The Language Access Services Division provides statutorily mandated services for the District Court by coordinating interpreter assistance for patrons with Limited English Proficiency. Interpreters also translate program documents and forms.

Accessible Services and Support

The Language Access Services Division provides language access services to patrons. There are several ways a patron can notify the Court of an interpreter need. Patrons may notify any court employee, indicate a language need on court forms, or contact the Courtroom Services Department. Interpreter services is not limited to courtroom proceedings, but is expanded to include the Law Library, Filing Office, Specialty Courts, Pretrial Services, and mediation. We provide spoken language and sign language interpreters at no cost to the parties.

Summary of Services

• 1,200 hearings require the use of an interpreter each year.
• Interpretation services include:
  • ASL
  • Amharic
  • Bengali
  • Cambodian
  • Cantonese
  • Chuukese
  • Farsi
  • German
  • Hindi
  • Hmong
  • Ilocano
  • Japanese
  • Korean
  • Lao
  • Mein
  • Mandarin
  • Marshallese
  • Punjabi
  • Russian
  • Samoan
  • Spanish
  • Tagalog
  • Thai
  • Tongan
  • Urdu
  • Vietnamese
• Language Access Plan
• Work with community resources to encourage and support those who are exploring options related to a career in court interpretation.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Language Access Services Department of the Second Judicial District Court is to provide meaningful access to information and services for limited English proficient individuals who access the Court.