Official Alaska Judiciary Website Alaska Court System

A disability is defined by the ADA as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of an individual.

• If you have difficulty hearing in a court proceeding, ask a court clerk in the courtroom for special headphones to help you hear better.
• If you have a disability and require assistance to participate fully in a court proceeding or activity, the court will provide reasonable accommodation.
• The court will make a decision for your individual case after considering the nature of your disability and the ability of the court to provide the requested accommodation.
• The court will give primary consideration to the type of accommodation that you request.
• Every situation is unique, so the court looks at requests one by one.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a law passed in 1990 that helps make places like courts more accessible to people with disabilities.

Requests for accommodation may be made in writing, by email, or by calling your local ADA coordinator. See the list of ADA coordinators for contact information.

• Requests for Accommodation: The court will promptly address requests for aids, modifications, and services to ensure access to courts, court programs, and court proceedings. Requests for accommodations are confidential.
• Timing: Requests should be made as far in advance as possible. If you can, submit your request to the court at least 10 business days before the date you need an accommodation.
• Decision: The court will inform you of its decision to grant or deny your request for accommodation.
• Denial: If your requested accommodation is denied, the court will specify the reasons for the denial. If you disagree with the denial, see:
  • Grievance Procedures for Persons Who Believe That the Court System Has Discriminated Against Them on the Basis of a Disability (PUB-18).
  • Alaska Court System’s ADA Policy (Administrative Bulletin 59).

If you are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind or have a speech disability, you may use Alaska Relay 711 to place phone calls.

ADA Coordinators