Court Interpretation and Translation Services

Maricopa County is a diverse community with a wide range of linguistic challenges. The Judicial Branch remains committed to improving access to justice for Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals, so they may effectively participate in all aspects of the court process.

Language Identification Guide

The department of Court Interpretation and Translation Services (CITS) provides interpretation and translation services to all departments (Superior Court, Justice Courts, Adult Probation, and Juvenile Probation) within the Judicial Branch. It is the priority of the CITS department to ensure that LEP individuals are given the opportunity to participate fully in the justice system, regardless of language or hearing capacity.

Learn more about CITS

History of Access to Language Services

Title VI, 42 U.S.C. § 2000d et seq., was enacted as part of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964. It prohibits discrimination based on race, color, and national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. As President John F. Kennedy said in 1963:

"Simple justice requires that public funds, to which all taxpayers of all races, colors, and national origins contribute, not be spent in any fashion which encourages, entrenches, subsidizes or results in racial [color or national origin] discrimination."

In October 1978, President Carter signed the Court Interpreters Act of 1978, establishing the right for any individual involved in a court proceeding to have a certified or otherwise qualified court interpreter if their communication or comprehension capabilities are inhibited because of a language barrier, or a hearing or speech impairment.

Superior Court Administrative Order

Need an Interpreter?

The Court will provide an interpreter free of charge to individuals with legal standing in a court matter. Typically, this service is limited to plaintiffs, defendants, victims, next of kin, guardians, and witnesses.

If you are represented by an attorney, your attorney will file a petition requesting the court to appoint a court interpreter for you. If you are representing yourself and you are using legal forms from the Law Library Resource Center please make sure to check the box on the cover sheet that states, “An interpreter is needed” specifying the language and region/variation.

Once the Court grants your request, CITS will be notified and every reasonable effort will be made for you to receive assistance in your language.

Interested in joining our innovative and dynamic organization?

Visit our recruitment page.

Programs

View the various programs CITS uses to help our customers.