Your Rights Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

When you face disability-related discrimination at work, in public services, or in accessing goods and services, it helps to understand how the Americans with Disabilities Act protects you. At Espy Law, based in Jackson, Mississippi (and serving throughout the state), we guide individuals seeking legal recourse when their rights have been violated. If you believe you have been subject to discrimination, please visit our contact page to arrange a free consultation.

What the ADA Means for You

Yes, the ADA provides important protections when you experience unfair treatment because of a disability. Enacted in 1990 and later expanded, the law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in employment, public services, transportation, and places of public accommodation.

It ensures that individuals with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else, promoting inclusion and accessibility in all areas of daily life. Whether in the workplace, at school, or in public settings, the ADA remains a cornerstone of equal rights.

If you are seeking a qualified discrimination attorney or a knowledgeable advocate for workplace rights, a law firm familiar with ADA protections is essential.

Recognising Disability Discrimination at Work

Under Title I of the ADA, employers with 15 or more employees must not discriminate against “qualified individuals with disabilities.” Discrimination may include refusal to hire, wrongful termination, failure to provide reasonable accommodation, or harassment. A “qualified individual” is someone who can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

If you work in Mississippi and believe you have been excluded, penalised, or otherwise treated unfairly because of a disability, you should speak with an employment lawyer who also handles ADA and discrimination matters. At Espy Law, we provide contingency-fee representation, meaning there are no upfront attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Accessing Public Services and Facilities

Titles II and III of the ADA ensure that people with disabilities can participate equally in public programs and enjoy public accommodations. Title II covers state and local government services, while Title III applies to private businesses open to the public (restaurants, stores, transit).

Examples include:

• Public transportation must offer accessible features.
• A sidewalk upgrade must include curb ramps when required.
• A movie theatre must ensure individuals with hearing impairment have appropriate access.

If you encounter a public entity or business in Jackson, Mississippi that denies you access or accommodations because of your disability, you may have grounds for legal action.

Reasonable Accommodations & Undue Hardship

When a disability affects your ability to work, the ADA requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations unless doing so causes an undue hardship. Accommodations could include schedule adjustments, assistive equipment, modified duties, or remote work options.

“Undue hardship” refers to significant difficulty or expense based on the employer’s size, resources, and operations. If you request an accommodation and the employer refuses without engaging in the interactive process, you may have a valid claim. A workplace discrimination lawyer can assess the situation and determine whether your rights were violated.

Filing a Complaint and Legal Options

If you believe you have experienced disability discrimination, there are steps to protect your rights:

• For employment cases under the ADA, you must file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a designated state agency before filing a lawsuit.
• For discrimination under Title II or III, you may file with the U.S. Department of Justice or pursue private legal action depending on the circumstances.

At Espy Law, we handle client consultations free of charge and explain these procedural requirements clearly. We serve people in Jackson, Mississippi, and throughout the state who need legal support from a firm that understands both employment law and disability rights.

Examples of Common ADA Violations

Below are situations that often give rise to claims:

• You apply for a job, disclose a disability, and are never contacted, while a less-qualified applicant is hired.
• You request a flexible schedule due to a chronic medical condition, and your employer rejects the request without discussion.
• A restaurant or retail store refuses to allow a service-animal handler entry even though the animal is trained and the individual qualifies under the ADA.
• A city-run transit service denies accessible van service to disabled riders.

Each of these may represent discrimination if the disability was a factor and served no legitimate business justification. More importantly, these violations are issues that an experienced employment law attorney can evaluate and pursue.

How to Protect Your Rights and Build Your Case

Taking the proper steps early improves your chances of success:

• Document every interaction, including your condition, accommodation requests, and responses from your employer or service provider.
• Keep medical records, diagnoses, accommodation notes, and any correspondence related to your case.
• Request accommodations in writing and retain copies of all communications.
• File a charge with the EEOC or appropriate agency within the required timeframe. Delays can jeopardize your right to relief.

Working with a law firm that handles disability and employment law ensures that your rights under the ADA are properly asserted. For more information about how we help employees protect their rights, visit our employment law practice area.

What You Can Expect from Representation

When you retain Espy Law, you receive professional support backed by experience in both employment and disability-related claims. Because we work on a contingency basis, you only pay if we successfully recover compensation. We assist in gathering evidence, preparing filings with government agencies, communicating with employers or opposing parties, and pursuing fair resolutions such as settlements or litigation when needed.

Facing disability-related discrimination can be emotionally and professionally challenging. Our firm provides clear guidance and committed representation for individuals in Jackson, Mississippi, who need to assert their rights under the ADA.

Protecting Equal Access & Fair Treatment

The rights guaranteed under the Americans with Disabilities Act are fundamental to equal participation in society. Employers, service providers, and government agencies must comply with these obligations. If you believe your ability to work or participate fully in public life has been limited by discrimination, and you are looking for a trusted discrimination attorney, Espy Law is ready to help. Our team will pursue justice and ensure that your rights are restored.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and let our firm stand up for your fair treatment and equal access under the law.