[pdf] New Mexico Judiciary Administrative Office of the Courts: Language Access Services Annual Report 2020 (+)

NIWAP Director Leslye Orloff is featured in the New Mexico Judiciary Administrative Office of the Courts Language Access Services Annual Report 2020. Director Orloff was interviewed regarding language access to Limited English Proficient immigrant survivors.

[pdf] COP Fundamentals on Remote Interpretation Presentation 10.27.20 (+)

This presentation focuses on the fundamentals of remote interpretation. It was created and presented by Ana Paula Noguez Mercado LLM from the Asian Pacific Institute on Gender Based Violence. She shares resources on remote interpretation and language access in during the pandemic.

[pdf] National Survey of Service Providers on Police Response to Immigrant Crime Victims, U Visa Certification and Language Access (April 16, 2013) (+)

This report explores police responses to immigrant victims of crime from the perspectives of various service providers, including legal services, pro bono attorneys, social service organizations, domestic violence/sexual assault programs, law enforcement and prosecutors’ offices. The data presented are based on the results of a nationwide survey of organizations serving immigrant victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. We assess the effect that a history of ongoing collaboration between victim and legal services agencies and law enforcement has on U Visa certification practices and language access to the justice system. The paper also examines the experiences of working with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) clients and language access in the field and during legal procedures. A key focus of this paper is to identify factors that support improved access to culturally and linguistically appropriate resources and services, including the identification of systemic barriers that impede access.

[pdf] Missouri Prosecutor Language Access Webinar PowerPoint (+)

This webinar was specifically tailored to a prosecutor audience in Missouri. It discusses language access requirements under Title VI and the American Disabilities Act as well as how to improve investigations and prosecutions by using language access tools. The goal of the presentation is to equip prosecutors with tools to enhance victim safety and participation […]

[pdf] Summit and Lorain Counties Project for Limited English Proficient Persons (+)

This document includes model policies and procedures for law enforcement officers to serve and protect limited English proficient persons. It was published by Summit and Lorain Counties in Ohio as a resource for law enforcement regarding interpretation and translation services.

[pdf] In Accordance with the Law: Working with LEP Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Victims Presentation (+)

This presentation reviews the language access requirements of Title VI and the American Disabilities Act. The goal of this presentation is to improve investigations and prosecutions by using language access tools. Better language access plans for Limited English Proficiency (LEP) victims enhance victim safety and participation in the criminal justice system.

November 21, 2019: In Accordance with the Law: When Your Victim Witness Speaks Limited English (Webinar)

NIWAP hosted this webinar on Thursday, November 21, 2019, from 11:30am-1:00pm (Eastern). This webinar outlines language access requirements under Title VI and the American Disabilities Act. With the help of NIWAP’s faculty experts, the webinar discusses best practices and language access plans that enhance Limited English Proficiency (LEP) victims’ safety and participation in the criminal […]

*Overcoming Language Barriers in Policing: Grants and Resources that Support Language Access Programs in Law Enforcement Agencies -Webinar (September 25, 2024)

PowerPoint Presentation Description Law enforcement agencies (LEAs) often face language barriers when communicating with individuals or communities who are limited English proficient, or LEP. Accurate and reliable translation and interpretation services are necessary for public safety but can feel costly if resources are not appropriately allocated. This webinar is focused on resources and tools that […]

[pdf] Access to Justice for All Victims NCVLI (June 5, 2019) (+)

This Powerpoint outlines the importance of language access for victim equality, civil rights compliance, quality and trauma-informed services, cultural humility, and systems change. The presentation further elaborates on the consequences of lack of language access and explains the legal and ethical mandate to have adequate language access. Along with language access, the Powerpoint covers cultural […]

*Language Access Training Materials (Updated June 18, 2019)

Language Access General Materials If you are a victim advocate, attorney, judge, or other professional working with an immigrant victim and you would like to receive case specific technical assistance on family law issues that arise in cases of immigrant crime victims, please call NIWAP for technical assistance.  (202) 274-4457 or email us at info@niwap.org.  […]

[pdf] Do you have problems at home? (July 16, 2015) (+)

This booklet explains the legal rights of immigrant victims of family violence including domestic violence, child abuse and elder abuse.

[pdf] Language Identification Card “I speak…” (May 2019) (+)

This language identification guide is a tool for law enforcement and other criminal justice agencies to identify the language of individuals they encounter who do not speak English. I Speak was adapted by Raksha, Inc and Tapestri, Inc through a grant with Dekalb Magistrate’s Court’s Compliance Court Project. It is based on the I Speak booklet created by a partnership effort of the Bureau of Justice Assistance and the Ohio Criminal Justice Service. This adaptation of the I speak guide contains the many more languages than other versions of this important I speak tool. (May 2019)

[pdf] Immigration Options for Victims of Crimes (+)

Produced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security covering Violence Against Women Act self-petitions, U visas and T visas. Information on Special Immigrant Juvenile Status and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals has been added by the National Immigrant Women’s Advocacy Project, American University, Washington College of Law. Downloadable one page (two sided brochure) available in English, Spanish, Russian, Korean, and Chinese.

*Training Materials: Language Access (Last Updated – March 2018)

Courts DOJ Letter to State Chief Justices and State Court Administrators on Access for Limited English Proficient Persons to State Court Proceedings Judicial Bench Card for Court Interpretation DOJ: Frequently Asked Questions about the Protection of Limited English Proficient (LEP) Individuals under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title VI Regulations […]

BUILDING LAW ENFORCEMENT CAPACITY TO SERVE IMMIGRANT VICTIMS

Table of Contents U-Visa “Helpfulness” Checklist CATEGORY: MANUAL DHS U and T Visa Law Enforcement Resource Guide Updated 11.30.15 Glossary of Terms for Work with Immigrant Survivors (November 15, 2017) U Visa Helpfulness Case Scenarios Collection of U-Visa News Articles Immigrant Crime Victims and U Visa Certification – What is it and Why Should Judges […]

November 3, 2017: Rockford, IL “What do State Courts Need to Know about Immigration and Why: Human Trafficking and Family Violence”

Training Materials PowerPoint Presentations for Training Technical Assistance Flyer Immigration Relief for Crime Victims and Children Know Your Rights Information DHS Interactive Infographic on Protections for Immigrant Victims Immigration Options for Victims of Crime -DHS Brochure Multilingual Materials for Victims and Advocates Pathways to Immigration Relief for Students Forms of Immigration Relief Bench Card: Overview […]

March 17, 2017: Honolulu, HI “Best Practices: Immigrant Crime Victims, Language Access and the U and T Visa”

The law enforcement training covered the best practices and recommendations based on Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations, policies and training materials on U and T visa certification and included a discussion of the benefits for law enforcement and prosecutors in following DHS’s recommendations for certification early in the case including in cases that are […]

[pdf] Знай свои права (Know Your Rights, Russian) (+)

Независимо от вашего иммиграционного статуса,вы имеете право быть в безопасности в вашем,собственном доме.У вас есть право покинуть ваш дом либо выдворить из вашего дома того, кто подвергает вас и/или ваших детей физическому,эмоциональному или сексуальному насилию.Никто не имеет права причинять вам или вашим детям какой-либо вред.

[pdf] Slides from “Helping Sexual Assault and Human Trafficking Victims: Holding their Abusers Accountable” (+)

These slides were presented by Leslye Orloff in a keynote address entitled “Helping Sexual Assault and Human Trafficking Victims: Holding their Abusers Accountable” at Youngstown State University on March 31, 2016. For additional materials relevant to this training, please visit www.niwap.org/go/Ohio2016.

[pdf] U Visa LEP Training for LE and Prosecutors NSA 2016 (+)

This workshop was presented by Leslye E. Orloff and Officer Michael LaRiviere at the National Sheriff’s Association Winter 2016 Conference in Washington, D.C. The slides aim enhance officer, victim, and community safety using language access and certification programs including the U and T Visas.

[pdf] Law Enforcement and Prosecution Best Practices: Immigrant Crime Victims, Language Access and the U Visa Slides (NCVC Anaheim Training 2015) (+)

These slides were presented by Leslye E. Orloff and Officer Michael LaRiviere at the National Center for Victims of Crime 2015 Training Institute. The slides aim to educate law enforcement, prosecutors, and other victim service providers about their role in providing services to immigrant crime victims, including providing U visa certification and T visa endorsement.

*Empowering Survivors Table of Contents

This is a comprehensive manual that provides information that will be useful to advocates, attorneys, justice, and social services professionals working with and assisting immigrant survivors of sexual assault. This manual will help advocates and professionals expand their knowledge and capacity to aid immigrant victims of sexual assault in accessing justice under federal and state civil, […]

[pdf] National Association of Judiciary Interpreters & Translators Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibilities (+)

This code of conduct developed by the National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators is a model code used by interpreters across the country. Law enforcement officials, courts, attorneys and advocates using interpreters often ask/require that interpreters with whom they work agree to follow this code when providing interpretation and translation services.

The function of court interpreters and translators is to remove the language barrier to the extent possible, so that such persons’ access to justice is the same as that of similarly-situated English speakers for whom no such barrier exists. The degree of trust that is placed in court interpreters and the magnitude of their responsibility necessitate high, uniform ethical standards that will both guide and protect court

[pdf] Brochure: Know Your Rights (+)

Regardless of your immigration status, you have the right to be safe in your own home. You have the right to leave or have anyone removed from your home who abuses you and/or your children physically, emotionally or sexually. No one has the right to hurt you or your children in any way.

[pdf] Questions to Use for Crime Scene Identification of Limited English Proficient (LEP) (May 16, 2017) (+)

These are sample introductory questions that an officer can ask when meeting a person that is potentially LEP. They are based on scenarios that an officer will likely encounter during his or her patrol. The goal is to ask questions that are not related to information the officer may need to for a criminal case, that can build rapport with victims and witnesses and avoid yes/no questions helping officers assess the need for a qualified interpreter to help LEP persons communicate with law enforcement and promote accuracy of police reports and criminal investigations.

[pdf] Chapter 1.6: Working Effectively with Telephone Interpreters (+)

This brief guide provides law enforcement officers with useful information when using telephone interpreters to communicate with persons who are limited English proficient (LEP).

[pdf] Chapter 1.4: Laws Governing Law Enforcement Agency Provision of Language Assistance to Limited English Proficient Persons (+)

Outline with links of laws governing law enforcement agency provision of language assistance to limited English proficient (LEP) individuals.

[pdf] Blue Card: Screening Tool for Victims Who Qualify for Immigration Protective Relief (March 2, 2018) (+)

Questions for eligibility for protective relief under VAWA, Battered Spouse Waiver, T Visa, and U Visas, as well as information on language access.

[pdf] Promoting Accurate and Effective Communication with Limited English Proficient Persons: Law Enforcement and Community Safety Benefits (+)

Instructor guide for having effective communication with limited English proficient (LEP) individuals. Training for law enforcement crime scene investigators and first responders.

[pdf] Chapter 04.3: Barriers to Accessing Services: The Importance of Advocates Accompanying Battered Immigrants Applying for Public Benefits (+)

This chapter discusses the different barriers which immigrants may encounter with regard to accessing services. It discusses the impact of Welfare Reform on immigrant families. This chapter also includes a policy guidance issued by the Department of Health and Human Services, regarding handling questions on citizenship, immigration status, and social security numbers during the benefits application process, as well as facilitating access to public benefits for persons with limited English proficiency (LEP). Other topics included in this chapter are Medicaid and SCHIP, food stamps, and Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF).

[pdf] Chapter 02: Ensuring Language Access to Immigrant Victims of Sexual Assault (July 1, 2013) (+)

Chapter in Empowering Survivors: Legal Rights of Immigrant Victims of Sexual Assault. This chapter provides an overview of federal language access laws that apply to work involving immigrant and Limited English Proficient victims of sexual assault. It includes a discussion of the history and development of federal language access laws, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, how to research demographics of the LEP community in your jurisdiction, definitions of who are LEP persons, federal enforcement of LEP laws, the importance of using qualified interpreters, an overview of language access plans, steps for determining interpreter qualifications, translation requirements, tips and best practices.

[pdf] Steps for Obtaining Interpreters – Law Enforcement (August 21, 2016) (+)

This tool provides an overview of the U.S. Department of Justice recommendations regarding steps law enforcement officers should take when they encounter limited English proficient (LEP) persons and the process for obtaining qualified interpreters. What police may do in exigent circumstances is discussed as is the importance of obtaining a qualified interpreter once the scene is secure and the officer is taking information that will be included in the police report or part of the criminal investigation in the case.

[pdf] Dos and Don’ts to Help Law Enforcement Identify Victims, Witnesses, and Other Persons Who Are Limited English Proficient and Need An Interpreter (May 16, 2017) (+)

This document provides general Dos and Don’ts for law enforcement officers that assist in detecting whether a person is limited English proficient (LEP) and needs an interpreter to communicate fully and effectively with law enforcement officials. This tool will also help law enforcement officials determine whether they believe an interpreter would facilitate accurate communication and the officer wishes to have an interpreter to ensure accuracy in police reports and investigations.

Law Enforcement, Prosecutor and T and U Visa Certifier Training Materials

Most of the documents in this section and the trainings provided to law enforcement and prosecutors listed at the end of this section were supported by grants from the Office on Violence Against Women, The Bureau of Justice Assistance and/or the Training and Technical Assistance Center of the Office of Victims of Crime of the […]

[pdf] Immigrant and Limited English Proficient Victims’ Access to the Criminal Justice System: The Importance of Collaboration (April 30, 2013) (+)

Fact Sheet highlighting findings from a national survey NIWAP conducted documenting immigrant crime victims’ experiences when they called the police for help in domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking cases. The findings provide data on the use of qualified interpreters at crime scenes by police and law enforcement barriers to U visa certification. In communities where established collaborative relationships between law enforcement and victim advocates and attorneys existed, law enforcement was significantly more likely to sign U visa certifications and more likely to provide language assess for limited English proficient crime victims at crime scenes.

[pdf] Report on State Plans and Services for Immigrant and Limited English Proficient (LEP) Victims (+)

NIWAP conducted a state by state review in 2012 of State Implementation Plans submitted by state STOP Administrators to the Office on Violence Against Women to identify trends and best practices for working with immigrant and limited English proficient victims. This report contains the results of that review.

[pdf] Somewhere to Turn (+)

A comprehensive manual covering topics such as: domestic violence and battered immigrant issues, cultural competency training, cross-cultural interviewing, recruiting and hiring multilingual and multicultural staff, shelter protocols, outreach and community collaboration, shelter access for battered immigrant women, VAWA immigration cases and victim advocacy confidentiality, creative use of protection orders, protections orders enforcement and criminal prosecution, access to public benefits, verification and reporting requirements under the U.S. Attorney General’s guidance and order, and model programs.