Disability Accommodations in Utah Courts: How to Ask and What to Do If You're Denied
General information, not legal advice. Read the full disclaimer.
Short answer: If you have a disability that limits one or more major life activities — walking, seeing, hearing, learning, for example — you can ask a Utah state court for an accommodation so you can take part in your case. Per the Utah Courts' accessibility page, contact the clerk of court for the location where your case is being held, and make the request as far in advance as possible so the court can review it and arrange the accommodation. The court may modify policies or procedures (alternate schedules or phone conferences), provide auxiliary aids and services at no charge, move services to an accessible facility, or offer services at another site. If the request is denied, you can file a complaint with the Administrative Office of the Courts under Rule of Judicial Administration 3-417.
Who this guide is for
Utahns with physical, sensory, cognitive or mental-health disabilities who have a court date, need to file papers or must use court services, and families helping them.
What you can ask for
The courts' page lists examples: alternative schedules, telephone or video participation in place of an in-person appearance, auxiliary aids and services (for example, assistive listening devices, materials in alternate formats), moving a service to an accessible location, and similar changes. The court may offer a different accommodation than the one you asked for, but it must be one that will effectively allow you to participate in court proceedings. If the clerk lacks authority to grant what you ask (for example, changing a hearing date), you may need to file a motion with the judge.
How to ask
- Contact the clerk for the court where your case is pending, as early as possible, and describe what you need and why.
- Put your request in writing if you can, and keep a copy.
- Give enough detail about the barrier (not your full medical history unless the court asks).
- Ask about the ADA coordinator. The courts' page lists a statewide ADA coordinator; confirm current contact information with the clerk or the page.
- File a motion if the request needs a judge's decision (for example, a change of hearing date).
When the court can say no
The page lists situations where a request may be denied, such as when it involves personal devices (wheelchairs, hearing aids) or personal-care services, would be an excessive burden on financial or staff resources, or would significantly change the services judicial officers normally provide.
If you're denied
You may file a complaint with the Administrative Office of the Courts under Rule of Judicial Administration 3-417. Keep the request, any response and the dates.
Other help for disabled Utahns
- Disability Law Center (free disability-rights advocacy statewide) — see How to Find Free or Low-Cost Legal Help in Utah.
- Special education and school rights: Utah Special Education and IEP Rights.
- Benefits: Utah SSDI and SSI Denial Appeals.
- Language needs: Free Court Interpreters in Utah.
- Housing accommodations (for example, an assistance animal) are covered by fair housing law: Utah Fair Housing Complaints.
Frequently asked questions
Who do I ask for an accommodation?
The clerk of court for the location where your case is being held.
Is there a charge?
The courts' page says auxiliary aids and services are provided at no charge.
What if I need a hearing date changed?
That may require a motion to the judge.
What if the court denies my request?
You can file a complaint with the Administrative Office of the Courts under Rule 3-417.