Abstract
Deaf individuals face systemic accessibility within the criminal justice system, which emphasizes the importance of the gaps in accommodations by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Inconsistent legal protection, limited access to interpreters, inadequate training for legal professionals, and a lack of technology resources obstruct effective communication for Deaf individuals. As a result, it prohibits achieving an effective and equitable legal outcome. This research paper will examine case studies, legal frameworks, and academic literature to highlight the critical need for reform, including mandatory Deaf culture training, standardized interpreting qualifications, and more resources to enable equitable access to justice.
Publication Date
5-6-2025
Document Type
Master's Project
Student Type
Graduate
Degree Name
Criminal Justice (MS)
Department, Program, or Center
Criminal Justice, Department of
College
College of Liberal Arts
Advisor
Judy Porter
Recommended Citation
Zieba, Anna, "Access to Justice for Deaf Defendants" (2025). Thesis. Rochester Institute of Technology. Accessed from
https://repository.rit.edu/theses/12182
Campus
RIT – Main Campus
