These fundamental constitutional principles have particular significance for those groups who may have suffered bias or prejudice based on race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, color, age, handicap, or political affiliation. Trial courts should be open and accessible. Such barriers can be geographic, economic, and procedural. They can be caused by deficiencies in language and the knowledge of individuals participating in court proceedings. Additionally, psychological barriers can be created by mysterious, remote, unduly complicated, and intimidating court procedures.
New Jersey is one of the most culturally diverse states in the nation.
It provides a haven and a new start annually for thousands of people from different countries all over the world. But the impact of a culturally and linguistically diverse population adds complexity to the Judiciary's commitment to provide equal access to the courts for everyone. The New Jersey Judiciary already has done much in this critical area, as is evidenced by the work of the trailblazing Supreme Court Task Forces on Women in the Courts and on Minority Concerns. But much more remains to be done, in building on the gains that have been made to date, to ensure full access to the courts by everyone. In that regard the Committee recommends the following strategic initiatives.