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​The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

This federal law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and public and private places that are open to the general public. The purpose of the law is to ensure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as individuals without disabilities. The ADA is divided into five titles that relate to different areas of public life. These include: 

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• Title I: Employment – prohibits employers from discriminating against individuals with disabilities in all aspects of employment, including job application procedures, hiring, promotions, and compensation.

• Title II: Public Services – prohibits state and local governments from denying people with disabilities access to public services such as government programs, transportation, and public buildings. 

• Title III: Public Accommodations – prohibits private businesses and organizations that serve the public from discriminating against individuals with disabilities in areas such as restaurants, hotels, theaters, and doctors' offices. These places must make reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities. 

• Title IV: Telecommunications – requires telephone and internet companies to provide telecommunications relay services for people with hearing or speech disabilities. This allows individuals who use TTY machines, voice carry-over phones, or other assistive devices to communicate with others by phone. 

• Title V: Miscellaneous Provisions – covers various other areas such as the National Council on Disability, ADA technical assistance and training centers, and enforcement provisions.

In addition to these five titles, the ADA includes specific regulations for accessibility in new construction and alterations of buildings. These regulations are known as the ADA Standards for Accessible Design and provide guidelines for making buildings accessible to people with disabilities. Houston ADA defense attorneys play a crucial role in ensuring that businesses comply with these regulations and do not discriminate against individuals with disabilities.

It is important to note that the ADA does not only protect those with physical disabilities but also those with mental or emotional disabilities. This includes conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. The ADA considers these conditions as "hidden" disabilities and requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals who may need them in order to perform their job duties.

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Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Defense Options 

Houston ADA defense attorneys will use all available strategies to defend you against ADA claims. These include:

Challenging the plaintiff's standing to bring a case by proving they have not suffered any injury or harm. 

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• Asserting that the business does not fall under ADA requirements, such as if it has fewer than 15 employees. 

• Arguing that making accommodations would cause undue hardship on the business. 

• Proving that the alleged barrier is not covered by the ADA guidelines. 

• Demonstrating that the business has been proactive in making reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. 

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Additionally, ADA defense attorneys can also work to negotiate settlements and reduce any potential damages or penalties. They can also provide guidance on how to make necessary accommodations and prevent future lawsuits. It is important for businesses to be informed about their rights and obligations under the ADA in order to avoid discrimination and costly legal battles.

Talk to a Houston Texas ADA Defense Attorney 

ADA defense lawyer Nolan Klein represents clients in Houston Texas and is waiting to take your call and discuss your rights as a business owner. He has the skill, knowledge, and experience necessary to defend you against any claims of ADA violations. With his help, you can protect your business from potential lawsuits and ensure that you are in compliance with all ADA regulations. Contact Nolan Klein today for a consultation and find out how he can assist you in defending your business against ADA claims.