LANGUAGE ACCESS AND INTERPRETER PROGRAM

Read the descriptions below and learn more about the PA COURTS' Language Access and Interpreter Program.  

Click on the corresponding underlined LINKS to access forms and more information.

INFORMATION

Language Access and Interpreter Program

Equal access to the courts is fundamental to the legitimacy of our system of justice and the trust and confidence of Pennsylvanians in our courts. Language services for individuals who speak limited English or are deaf or hard of hearing are essential to ensure that they are able to fully participate in judicial proceedings and court services, programs and activities in which their rights and interests are at stake.

Language Access Plan

The policy of the Unified Judicial System is to provide meaningful language access for all individuals who are Limited English Proficient ("LEP") to ensure that all persons have due process and equal access to all judicial proceedings, court services, programs and activities. Ensuring meaningful language access means providing timely, accurate, and effective language services at no cost. In addition, it is the policy of the Unified Judicial System to provide equally effective communication to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, in part, by providing American Sign Language interpreters at no cost to litigants, witnesses and court spectators.

UJS Interpreter Program

Court interpreters are a vital tool in fulfilling the Judiciary's obligation to guarantee the rights of persons with limited English proficiency and those who are deaf or hard of hearing.  "Due process is a core value of the American judicial system, ensuring that every litigant and criminal defendant receives a fair hearing that is based on the merits of his or her case and presided over by an impartial judge. No one should be put at a disadvantage in court by reason of race, ethnicity, or gender. The basic fairness of the Pennsylvania court system is jeopardized if litigants with limited English proficiency (LEP) are unable to have access to competent interpreters and other language assistance."

Not sure if you need an interpreter?  Please watch the informative video below by clicking on it.

FORMS

Court of Common Pleas Lycoming County

Interpreter Request Form - Court of Common Pleas 

Request an Interpreter for the Court of Common Pleas using this form.  Download and print an Interpreter Request Form then email or fax to the Office of the District Court Administrator.  Contact information found at bottom of Interpreter Request Form.

Interpreter Waiver Form

The Interpreter Waiver Form allows you to knowingly, voluntarily and intelligently choose to waive your right to have an interpreter present to assist you during court proceedings. Download and print the Interpreter Waiver Form or fill out on-line then submit to the Office of the District Court Administrator via email: courtscheduling@lyco.org or fax: 570-327-2293.

Magisterial District Courts / Magisterial District Judge (MDJ) Offices

Interpreter Request Form - MDJ   

Request an Interpreter for Magisterial District Court. Download and print an Interpreter Request Form - MDJ or fill out on-line then submit it to the correct MDJ office for your jurisdiction in Lycoming County.

Please submit directly to the appropriate MDJ Office.

You can find your MDJ office HERE according to where you live in Lycoming County.

Miscellaneous Forms

Bilingual Forms

Pennsylvania Courts Language Services Complaint Form