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 language of criminal defendants, witnesses, or individuals with legal decision-making authority. The aim is to ensure that individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) can fully understand and participate in court proceedings. The AOC is tasked with identifying which documents require translation and is required to provide translations in nine specific languages: Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese, Italian, Korean, Hindi, Arabic, Haitian Creole, and French. Additionally, the AOC must implement policies to post signs in courthouses that inform the public about their right to receive 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 litigants who do not speak English as their primary language, thereby ensuring equitable access to the judicial system. It emphasizes the importance of bridging language barriers in various legal contexts, including 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 language access in federally funded programs. By facilitating language access through translations and signage, the bill aims to enhance the integrity and functionality of the legal system for all individuals, regardless of their English proficiency.