An advisory panel focused on improving disabled litigants' ability to access and navigate the state courts, both remotely and in person, has been formed by Chief Judge Janet DiFiore and Chief Administrative Judge Lawrence Marks, the judges announced today.

From procedures for requesting accommodations to examining the quality of remote video interpreting services for the deaf, the 17-member panel will investigate “a broad scope of issues” and will develop “an action plan” aimed at improving New York state court access for the disabled, the judges announced in a statement.

“Access to the courts is a fundamental right, protected by our state and federal constitutions,” DiFiore said. “The advisory panel will work to identify and remove barriers to court facilities and services, wherever possible, ensuring that New York's state courts are readily accessible to all people, regardless of disability or any other factor.”