Historic ADA Lawsuit Against Banco Popular Exposes Systematic Discrimination in Puerto Rico

February 28, 2025

In a groundbreaking legal action that could reshape accessibility standards across Puerto Rico's financial sector, Vélez Law Group has filed a comprehensive federal lawsuit against Banco Popular de Puerto Rico, alleging systematic discrimination against individuals with mobility disabilities.

The Case: A Pattern of Discrimination

Case 3:25-cv-01120, filed on February 26, 2025, in the United States District Court for the District of Puerto Rico, presents compelling evidence of what the complaint describes as "two separate standards of accessibility: one for the mainland United States and another, profoundly inadequate one, for Puerto Rico."

The lawsuit documents violations across an astonishing 145 branches throughout Puerto Rico, revealing a consistent pattern: transaction counters reaching up to 49 inches in height—far exceeding the 36-inch maximum required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)—and lacking sufficient depth for proper frontal approach by wheelchair users.

What makes this case particularly notable is the evidence that Banco Popular maintains ADA-compliant counters at its Florida branches while simultaneously implementing non-compliant designs in Puerto Rico, demonstrating what appears to be a deliberate choice to maintain different standards across regions.

Beyond Standard ADA Claims: A Multi-Faceted Legal Approach

Vélez Law Group's innovative legal strategy extends beyond typical ADA claims to include:

1. Constitutional Violations: Allegations that Banco Popular violates Puerto Rico's constitutional provisions on human dignity and equal protection.

2. Fair Housing Act Claims: Arguments that inaccessible mortgage service counters discriminate in housing-related financial services.

3. Equal Credit Opportunity Act Violations: Assertions that the barriers constitute discrimination in credit transactions.

4. Breach of Contract Claims: For existing customers, claims that Banco Popular has breached contractual obligations to provide accessible services.

5. Pattern of Discrimination: Evidence that the contrast between accessible facilities in Florida and inaccessible ones in Puerto Rico reveals intentional discrimination.

This comprehensive approach demonstrates Vélez Law Group's sophisticated understanding of disability rights law and their commitment to securing the fullest possible remedies for their clients.

The Vélez Law Group Difference

Led by José Carlos Vélez Colón, Vélez Law Group has established itself as a leading civil rights firm specializing in ADA compliance and disability rights litigation. Their approach combines thorough documentation, innovative legal theories, and a deep commitment to advancing the rights of individuals with disabilities.

"This case exposes more than isolated accessibility failures—it reveals an institutional policy that treats Puerto Rican customers with disabilities as second-class citizens," states Vélez Colón. "What makes this particularly egregious is that Banco Popular clearly knows how to comply with the ADA, as demonstrated by their Florida branches. They've simply chosen not to do so in Puerto Rico."

The firm's meticulous preparation is evident in the complaint's detailed documentation of barriers across dozens of branches, supported by exact measurements and precise location data.

Why This Case Matters

The implications of this lawsuit extend far beyond the banking sector. If successful, it could establish important precedents for:

1. Equal Treatment Across Jurisdictions: Reinforcing that the ADA applies with equal force in Puerto Rico as in the mainland United States.

2. Comprehensive Remedies: Expanding the range of legal theories available to individuals facing discrimination.

3. Corporate Accountability: Sending a clear message that maintaining different accessibility standards across regions constitutes intentional discrimination.

4. Architectural Specificity: Providing clear guidance on counter height and depth requirements that could influence design standards across industries.

Seeking Justice: The Path Forward

The plaintiffs are seeking a permanent injunction requiring Banco Popular to bring all its counters into ADA compliance within 180 days, along with policy changes, staff training, and independent verification measures to ensure ongoing compliance.

"Access to banking services isn't a luxury—it's essential for full participation in society," notes Vélez Colón. "Our clients simply want what any customer wants: the ability to conduct their financial affairs independently and with dignity."

For businesses concerned about their own ADA compliance, the case serves as a powerful reminder that accessibility is not optional, and that maintaining different standards across regions can constitute evidence of intentional discrimination.

About Vélez Law Group

Vélez Law Group specializes in civil rights litigation with a focus on accessibility and disability rights. The firm combines deep legal expertise with a passionate commitment to ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive equal access to public accommodations, services, and opportunities.

Led by José Carlos Vélez Colón, the firm has established a reputation for thorough case preparation, innovative legal strategies, and unwavering advocacy for their clients' rights.

For businesses seeking to ensure ADA compliance or individuals who have encountered accessibility barriers, Vélez Law Group offers consultations to discuss legal rights and obligations.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Vélez Law Group at VLG@VELEZLAWGROUP.COM or call (787) 422-1881.

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The outcome of any legal proceeding depends on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.