S 3812 New Jersey Senate · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Requires certain court documents to be translated into languages other than English.

This bill requires the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts to translate certain criminal court documents, such as indictments and plea agreements, into the primary languages of defendants, witnesses, and legal guardians. It mandates that these documents be provided in nine specific languages including Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, and Hindi, and allows for the use of interpreters to assist with written translations when feasible. Additionally, the bill requires courthouses to post signs in multiple languages informing individuals with limited English proficiency of their right to receive translated documents and language assistance services. The Administrative Office of the Courts will determine which specific documents require translation based on community needs and will develop policies to implement these requirements.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Mar 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Mar 5, 2026 Last action Mar 5, 2026
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Mar 5, 2026
Introduced
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee
upper
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Teresa Ruiz
Teresa Ruiz
DDemocratic
NJ
29