Court interpreter pilot, CASA programs and facility projects highlighted in State of the Judiciary

Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero described three operational initiatives intended to improve access to justice: a Court Interpreter Workforce Pilot Program, court-appointed special advocate (CASA) programs, and judicial-branch facilities work.

On the interpreter program, Guerrero said funding covers training, exam fees and that participating candidates commit to work for courts for at least three years after passing required exams. She said 19 courts are participating, more than 1,000 applications have been received, and 126 candidates are currently in the program. The chief justice described the pilot as a five-year effort to address interpreter shortages for court users with limited English proficiency.

On CASA, Guerrero said there are 45 CASA programs in 52 counties serving 10,600 children with 7,400 trained volunteers; volunteers monitor children, provide recommendations to the court, and support placement decisions. On facilities, she noted the Judicial Council completed two new public buildings in Shasta and Riverside counties, with three additional projects expected to finish this year and one in 2026. Guerrero also said the branch continues to evaluate physical-security improvements following attacks and threats on courthouses.

Ending: Guerrero said these operational and facilities efforts, paired with workforce initiatives, support access to justice and public safety in the courts.