Protecting Rights. Defending Businesses. Advocating for Fairness. 

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a powerful federal law that protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination in employment, public spaces, education, and other areas. At Scanes Yelverton Talbert, LLP, we represent both employees and businesses in ADA matters throughout Waco and Central Texas, from early-stage EEOC complaints to complex litigation in federal court. 

 

Whether you're an employee facing discrimination or a local Waco business navigating ADA compliance, our team is here to provide the guidance, advocacy, and legal strength you need. 

 

What Is the ADA? 

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) is divided into five sections (called “Titles”), but two are most relevant in Waco employment and business cases: 

• Title I: Prohibits disability discrimination in employment. 
• Title III: Requires public-facing businesses to ensure physical and digital accessibility. 

 

These federal protections are enforced by agencies like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), as well as through private lawsuits. Texas also has its accessibility requirements under the Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS), which closely mirror those of the ADA. 

 

Title I ADA Claims - Employment Discrimination in Waco 

Under Title I, employers with 15 or more employees are required to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified workers with disabilities. It is also illegal to discriminate during: 

• Hiring or promotion 
• Compensation 
• Job assignments 
• Termination 
• Training and other terms of employment 

 

If you’ve been denied an accommodation, fired, demoted, or otherwise mistreated at work due to your disability, you may have a claim under the ADA. 

 

Filing an ADA Employment Claim in Waco 

ADA employment complaints are typically filed with the EEOC or the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). Strict deadlines apply when filing a claim, usually 180 to 300 days from the date of discrimination. 

 

The EEOC may: 

• Attempt mediation 
• Request documentation and conduct interviews 

Determine whether there is probable cause for discrimination 

• Issue a “Right to Sue” letter, allowing the employee to pursue litigation 

 

At SYT, we guide Waco employees through the EEOC process and prepare strong responses for Waco employers facing complaints. We understand both sides of ADA disputes, which gives us the insight to anticipate arguments, evaluate risk, and achieve fair outcomes. 

 

Title III ADA Claims - Public Accommodation Requirements in Waco 

If you operate a business in Waco that’s open to the public, the ADA requires you to make your property and services accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes restaurants, gyms, hotels, retail shops, medical offices, and many others. 

 

Title III violations can include: 

• Inaccessible entrances or restrooms 
• Refusal to allow service animals 
• Lack of wheelchair access 
• Website inaccessibility  

 

The DOJ typically enforces these complaints, but individuals or advocacy groups can also file lawsuits directly. Penalties can include: 

• Civil fines up to $55,000 for a first violation 
• $110,000 for subsequent violations 
• Injunctions or court orders to modify facilities 

 

At Scanes Yelverton Talbert, we help Waco businesses proactively comply with ADA regulations and defend them against ADA Title III complaints and lawsuits. 

 

ADA Defense for Waco Employers and Businesses 

Facing an ADA claim doesn’t mean your business has done something wrong, but you should never ignore a Notice from the EEOC or DOJ. At SYT, we help businesses in Waco and across Central Texas: 

• Respond to EEOC and DOJ inquiries 
• Negotiate ADA complaint resolutions 
• Defend against lawsuits in federal court 
• Resolve ADA disputes through mediation 
• Interpret lease/franchise language for compliance obligations 

 

We also raise legal defenses such as: 

• Undue burden (the accommodation is too costly or difficult) 
• No standing (the complainant never engaged with your business) 
• Mootness (the issue has already been resolved) 

 

Whether the claim is based on a structural issue, policy, or alleged online barrier, our team has the experience to minimize your risk and defend your reputation. 

 

Why Choose Scanes Yelverton Talbert for ADA Claims in Waco? 

Our team brings deep knowledge of federal disability law, a practical understanding of business operations, and a long-standing commitment to the Waco community. We’re not just ADA lawyers, we’re your neighbors and advocates, ready to provide: 

• Clear advice at every stage 
• Focused, practical strategies, whether you're filing a claim or defending against one 
• Hands-on support from attorneys who live and work in Waco 

 

Schedule a Free Consultation Today 

Whether you’re an employee who’s been denied equal treatment or a business owner working to stay compliant, the attorneys at Scanes Yelverton Talbert, LLP are here to help you move forward with confidence.