Disability Rights Litigation

As a legal practitioner, familiarity with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act (Rehab Act) is essential. In fact, in 2022 alone, plaintiffs filed over 3,255 federal ADA lawsuits. Legal experts expect that trend to increase. The demand and need for accessibility is everywhere. Thus, lacking accessibility is both dangerous and costly. However, there is hope. Lawyers of all practice areas can learn how to navigate the minefield of accessibility litigation, adopt policies and practices aimed at increasing inclusion and avoiding litigation, and better serve the needs of their clients and employees. In the process, these lawyers can become leaders in this dynamic, growing field.

Using case law, legislative history, and personal anecdotes, this course will teach the histories and purposes of the ADA and the Rehab Act, how those Acts have evolved over time, and how such changes impact how courts and federal enforcement agencies measure compliance. Discussions will also include how to identify, analyze, remedy, and prevent accessibility challenges that give rise to lawsuits. Finally, this course will review practical tips and tricks for accessing and effectively meeting the accessibility needs of clients and employees.

Attorneys from all levels of experience and backgrounds who advise businesses or government agencies on personnel issues and are looking for hands-on tools for avoiding ADA lawsuits and creating a more disability-inclusive world are encouraged to attend this program. In learning more about disability rights, attorneys will gain more comfort with disability-related issues.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze the history and purpose of the ADA and the Rehab Act
• Evaluate how courts, Congress, and federal agencies have shaped the ADA and Rehab Act over time
• Differentiate the current state of disability rights litigation and tools for reducing your chance of being sued