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 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 litigants who do not speak English as their primary language, ensuring they are not excluded from the judicial process due to language barriers. It emphasizes the importance of meaningful language access in maintaining the integrity of the legal system and protecting the rights of LEP individuals in various legal matters, including criminal cases, child custody, and domestic violence. 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 entities receiving federal assistance to provide language access. By facilitating communication and understanding in the courtroom, the bill aims to promote equal treatment and access to justice for all individuals, regardless of their English proficiency.