A new resource is now available to support courts in upholding state and federal law and applying Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which applies to all state and local government entities, including courts.

Serving People with Disabilities and Title II of the ADA: A Toolkit for Courts helps courts address aspects of the law that apply to court services, covering areas from physical access to digital accessibility.

“Making courts accessible for people with disabilities improves the system for all users,” said Grace Spulak, an NCSC principal court management consultant and lead author of the toolkit. “Thinking about the needs of court users with disabilities leads to process simplification, clearer communication, and better navigation for everyone. It’s a win-win!”

Courts can serve people with disabilities by developing accessible resources, services, buildings, or documents, and by creating accommodations or modifications to existing ones to meet individual needs.

The toolkit details essential aspects of serving people with disabilities, including:

• Establishing relationships with the disability community
• Ensuring effective communication
• Addressing document and web accessibility
• Considering building and facility accessibility
• Understanding the use of service animals
• Addressing the use of mobility devices

For more information on access to justice and to access the toolkit and other accessibility resources, visit: ncsc.org/accessibility.