LEP FAQs - CT Judicial Branch

Limited English Proficiency

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is an individual with Limited English Proficiency (LEP)?
Persons who do not speak English as their primary language and who have a limited ability to read, speak, write or understand English can be limited English proficient, or “LEP.” These individuals may be entitled to language assistance for a service, benefit, or encounter.

2. Can I receive the services of an interpreter?
If English is not your primary language and you have a limited ability to read, speak, or understand English, you fall within the definition of Limited English Proficient (LEP) and can receive language assistance provided by the Judicial Branch.

3. How do I get an interpreter if I must go to court?
Once the need for language assistance is identified for any LEP person involved in a court-related proceeding, court personnel will submit a written request for interpreting services to the Interpreter and Translator Services Unit of the Connecticut Judicial Branch.

4. Do I need to pay for the services of a court interpreter?
No, language assistance is provided to LEP individuals at no cost.

5. Can a family member or friend interpret for me in court?
No, the services of highly qualified and trained court interpreters are required to handle official court-related interactions. It is not appropriate to use relatives or friends as interpreters as these individuals are not neutral parties, they may have an interest in the outcome of the case, and they have not been tested for language proficiency. In order to ensure meaningful and equal access to the courts, competent language assistance is needed.

6. Is Spanish the only language available?
No. The Judicial Branch provides meaningful access through language assistance services regardless of an individual’s language.

7. I don’t speak English well. Where can I get help filling out a form?
Court Service Centers and Public Information Desks can help you. They are in Judicial District courthouses. These centers and information desks are staffed by Judicial Branch employees trained to assist all court patrons. Court Service Centers have bilingual staff or telephonic language assistance services available to communicate with you on site.

8. Are documents available in languages other than English?
Some informational materials, forms, and documents are currently available in Spanish. These can be found by visiting the Spanish-language page of the State of Connecticut Judicial Internet website. The Judicial Branch is actively working on increasing the amount of materials available.

9. Who do I contact if I have a question about my case and I am an individual who is LEP?
You may call the Judicial Branch location/office where your case is and ask court staff about your case. Telephone interpreting services will be provided.

10. What do I do if I am an individual who is LEP and needs an accommodation because of a disability?
The State of Connecticut Judicial Branch is committed to making sure that individuals who have a disability and are limited English proficient have equal and full access to the Connecticut judicial system. Requests for disability accommodations can be made at any time in any court clerk’s office, in a Court Service Center, over the phone, by email, or on the Internet through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) quick link on the Judicial Branch home page.

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