The State of Michigan is comprised of individuals representing different cultures, ethnicities, races, and backgrounds. Language differences should not be a barrier preventing engagement and participation in provided state services. The Department of Attorney General (MDAG) is committed to ensuring everyone has access to our public information and services in alignment with the Meaningful Language Access to State Services Act, 2023 PA 241, MCL 37.21 et seq. (PA 241)
A Language Access Plan has been developed to ensure that all Michigan residents have access and can meaningfully participate in the public programs, activities, and services of the MDAG. This language access plan outlines the language assistance services provided by the Authority to ensure communication and participation for individuals with limited English proficiency.
The mission of MDAG is to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Great State of Michigan, provide for the safety and security of our citizens, enforce our laws, assist local law enforcement, provide justice for the victims of crime, protect our environment and natural resources, provide excellent legal services to all State departments, agencies, State officials and employees, and protect the rights of the People of the Great State of Michigan.
The Attorney General is the state’s top lawyer and law enforcement official, protecting and serving the people and interests of Michigan through a broad range of duties. The Attorney General:
- Represents the People of Michigan in civil and criminal matters before trial courts, appellate courts, and the supreme courts of Michigan and the United States.
- Serves as legal counsel to state officers and, with few exceptions, to state agencies, boards, and commissions.
- Assists prosecuting attorneys, local law enforcement, and federal criminal justice agencies in the administration of justice.
- Renders opinions on questions of law when requested to do so by the governor, legislature, or any other state officer.
- Prepares and reviews contracts and agreements involving the State of Michigan.
- Manages programs and special projects to detect and crack down on fraudulent, unfair, and illegal activities that victimize consumers or threaten public safety.
Your Rights
- The right to receive language assistance to better understand public services, programs, and documents.
- The right to meet with designated MDAG staff and an interpreter.
- The right to receive written translation of public service documents provided by MDAG.
- The right to receive accurate language services as to MDAG documents.
- The right to file a complaint if you feel we are not complying with the State of Michigan language access statutes.
Free Language Assistance Services
MDAG is committed to taking reasonable steps to ensure meaningful access to information on public services for people who need language services help. There is no charge for these language access services. If a person’s preferred method of receiving interpreting and translation help is by a support person like a family member or friend this is allowable if the person is 18 years or older. A Language Access Services Waiver would need to be signed. Relying on a minor under the age of 18 to provide language assistance is not permitted.
MDAG uses different tools to make sure individuals needing language access receive help. The MDAG website includes a language access services link posted in multiple languages and is published on the website. This link shares information about rights, services, and how to file a complaint. MDAG’s offices are equipped with tools to help. Trained staff aid people by using “I Speak” cards and coordinate interpreting services. The services are provided by contracted interpreters and are offered by phone, virtually, and in person. Written translation services are provided by contracted translators.