The U.S. Department of Justice and the New Jersey judiciary have reached a settlement over allegations that the Monmouth vicinage courts failed to provide adequate language access to individuals with limited English proficiency. Additionally, there were claims of retaliation against a court employee who reported these concerns.
The agreement followed an investigation by the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey. Details were provided in a DOJ statement issued on Thursday, outlining the findings and steps for resolution.
The judiciary, like the Department of Justice, is committed to ensuring equal access to the courts for all,” Peter McAleer, spokesperson for the Administrative Office of the Courts, said in a statement to the Law Journal.