The Judicial Council of California held a meeting on July 18, 2025, focusing on language access within the court system, particularly for indigenous languages and communities. The discussion highlighted the importance of providing adequate resources for speakers of various languages, including those from Guatemalan indigenous groups such as the Mixtecos and Zapotecs.

Chief Darryl Parker from Santa Barbara raised concerns about the presence of these languages in California and requested data on their usage. He noted the significant number of Mayan dialects and expressed interest in understanding where these languages are most prevalent in the state. In response, officials indicated that regional studies have been conducted, revealing the demand for these languages in specific areas. They committed to providing further analysis on the usage of Guatemalan languages, particularly MAM, which has shown higher usage in certain regions.

Judge Hallahan, serving as a liaison to the Court Interpreters Advisory Committee, acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the council to adapt to the changing linguistic landscape and emphasized the importance of access to justice for all individuals, regardless of language barriers. She expressed gratitude for the council's work and reiterated that language access remains a priority for the judicial branch.

The meeting concluded with a collective appreciation for the efforts made to enhance language access, underscoring the commitment to ensuring that all individuals can understand and exercise their rights within the legal system.