Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Information

Services for Persons with Disabilities


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The California Courts are dedicated to ensuring that persons with disabilities have equal and full access to the judicial system. California Rule of Court 1.100 sets forth the process for requesting accommodations for court proceedings that can provide equal and full access. 

 

 

Persons with Disabilities

"Persons with disabilities" includes persons who have a physical or medical condition that limits one or more of their major life activities, have a record of such a condition, or are regarded as having such a condition.

Who can make the request?
Any lawyer, party, witness, juror, or other person with an interest in attending a court proceeding may request an accommodation.

What accommodations can the court make?
Accommodations may include making reasonable modifications in practices and procedures or furnishing auxiliary aids and services, equipment, devices, or materials. Providing free legal counsel is not an accommodation. A court also cannot extend the statute of limitations for filing an action because of a disability.

Can the general public view a request for accommodations?
No. The court keeps confidential all information concerning the request for an accommodation unless the law requires otherwise, or the applicant agrees in writing.

 

How to Make a Request for Accommodations

A request for accommodations can be made on this form, Disability Accommodation Request (Form MC-410), in another written format, or orally. Request should be sent or made to the court’s ADA coordinator.

What information should be in the request?
Requests for accommodations must include a description of the accommodation sought, a statement of the medical condition that requires the accommodation, and an explanation why requested accommodations are needed. The court, in its discretion, may require the applicant to provide additional information about the medical condition.

When should the request be made?
Requests for accommodation should be made as far in advance as possible and no later than five court days prior to the date needed.  The court may, in its discretion, waive this five-day requirement.

 

Response to a Request for Accommodations

The court will promptly inform the applicant of its determination to grant or deny an accommodation request. If the request is denied in whole or in part, the response will be in writing. The court may provide an accommodation for an indefinite period of time, for a limited period of time, or for a particular matter or appearance.

Grounds for Denial of a Request for Accommodations

The request for accommodation may be denied for three reasons:

  • The applicant has failed to satisfy the requirements of California Rule of Court 1.100. This includes inadequately explaining why the medical condition requires the requested accommodation.
  • The requested accommodations would create an undue financial or administrative burden on the court.
  • The requested accommodations would fundamentally alter the nature of the service, program, or activity.

 

ADA Grievance Procedure

Complaints alleging discrimination on the basis of disability can be filed through the ADA grievance procedure required by the ADA. Read more about the Grievance Procedure for the Supreme Court of California and California Courts of Appeals.

Website Accessibility Features

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If you have any questions or require further information, please contact the court directly.