Question 1

How much do I have to pay to start a legal claim?

Accepted Answer

You don't have to put up any money to start your case. Congress included an attorney fee provision in the ADA. Under this provision, the prevailing party can recover attorney fees from the discriminating party. For this reason, we carefully evaluate each case and only accept those with a reasonable probability of success.

Question 2

What financial risks exist if I don't prevail in my case?

Accepted Answer

Attorney fees against a plaintiff only apply in 'legally frivolous' cases per Christiansburg Garment Co. v. EEOC, 434 U.S. 412 (1978). It is important to distinguish between 'legally frivolous' cases and cases some consider 'unsympathetic.' Congress determined that the right to sue to eliminate discrimination serves an important social purpose.

Question 3

Is it necessary to notify the business before filing a claim?

Accepted Answer

No. The law does not require prior notification. When Congress passed the ADA on July 26, 1990, all businesses were notified of their legal obligations. Establishments have two options: comply with the law or cease operations.

Question 4

Has Vélez Law Group won cases under the ADA?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We have obtained judgments against McDonald's and reached settlements with national restaurant chains, retail businesses, hotels, and more. Our case Betancourt-Colón v. City of San Juan resulted in comprehensive accessibility improvements throughout the city.

Question 5

What jurisdictions does Vélez Law Group cover?

Accepted Answer

We operate from four offices: San Juan (Puerto Rico), Los Angeles (California), Chicago (Illinois), and Houston (Texas). Our Los Angeles office also handles consumer privacy cases under California law, including CIPA, CCPA, and the Unruh Civil Rights Act.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do I have to pay to start a legal claim?

What financial risks exist if I don't prevail in my case?

Is it necessary to notify the business before filing a claim?

Has Vélez Law Group won cases under the ADA?

What jurisdictions does Vélez Law Group cover?