This bill mandates the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) in New Jersey to establish policies for translating key court documents, such as indictment pleadings, plea agreements, and motions, into the primary languages of criminal defendants, witnesses, or individuals with legal decision-making authority. The AOC is tasked with identifying which documents require translation to enhance language access services tailored to the diverse communities in New Jersey. The bill specifies that translation services should be provided for nine languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese, Italian, Korean, Hindi, Arabic, Haitian Creole, and French. Additionally, the AOC is required to implement policies that ensure courthouses post signs in high-traffic areas, informing the public of their right to access court documents in their primary language and the availability of language assistance services.

The intent of the bill is to uphold the civil rights of individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) by ensuring they can effectively participate in judicial proceedings. It emphasizes the importance of bridging language barriers to maintain the integrity of the legal system, particularly in critical cases involving child custody, domestic violence, and criminal prosecution. The bill aligns with federal mandates under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on national origin and requires meaningful language access in courts. By providing necessary translations and clear signage, the bill aims to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their English proficiency, have equal access to justice and can fully understand court operations and proceedings.