Language Access Issues
In late 2006, Act 172 was passed, expanding and standardizing language interpreter services in Pennsylvania.  Under this law, interpreter services must be provided for litigants with limited English proficiency in all court proceedings and most administrative proceedings.  The law applies to all state and county court proceedings, both criminal and civil.  In all criminal cases and in civil where the parties are indigent, the court bears the cost of the interpreter services.  In those civil cases where the parties can afford the costs, the court may include the costs of the interpreter services in court fees assessed against the parties.