Americans with Disability Act Information
In 1990, Congress passed the ADA “to provide a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities.” Congress explicitly directed that “the definition of disability in this Act shall be construed in favor of broad coverage of individuals under this Act, to the maximum extent permitted by the terms of this Act.” The ADA protects the rights of people who have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits their ability to perform one or more major life activities, such as breathing, walking, reading, thinking, seeing, hearing, or working. While the ADA has five separate titles, Title II is the section specifically applicable to “public entities” (state and local governments) and the programs, services, and activities they deliver.
No qualified person with a disability may be excluded from participating in, or denied the benefits of, the programs, services, and activities provided by state and local governments because of a disability. Regarding the 28th Circuit Court, it strives to permit those with qualifying disabilities to participation in trials and hearings, both as a litigant and an observer; access to publications, libraries, and internet sites related to the court; ADR Programs; training offered by the court; physical accessibility of courtrooms and the courthouse; and the juror selection process. As a public entity, the 28th Circuit Court will reasonably modify their rules, policies, and procedures to avoid discriminating against people with disabilities.
If you need assistance, please contact Nicole Hagstrom, who is the ADA Coordinator for the 28th Circuit Court, via email [email protected] or call 231-779-9490. For further information about ADA requirements and the Michigan judiciary’s commitment to assisting access to the courts, you may also visit Americans With Disabilities Act.