Monday: October 20, 2025
Civil courts play an important role in enforcing disability rights laws by hearing cases alleging discrimination based on disability. Here are some key points on their jurisdiction:
– Americans with Disabilities Act – ADA cases can be heard in both federal and state civil courts. Plaintiffs can choose whether to file in federal district court or state trial court.
– Section 504 of Rehabilitation Act – Civil claims alleging violations of Section 504 (disability discrimination by entities receiving federal funding) can be filed in federal court.
– IDEA disputes – Claims that a school district violated the IDEA can be filed in federal or state courts after administrative procedures are exhausted.
– Fair Housing Act – Cases of housing discrimination based on disability can be filed in federal district court or state trial court.
– State disability rights laws – Each state has its own civil court system that hears cases brought under state disability statutes.
– Remedies – Courts can order remedies such as striking down discriminatory policies, reinstating employment, improvements to accessibility, monetary damages, attorney’s fees.
So in summary, federal and state civil court systems have concurrent jurisdiction over many disability rights claims, giving plaintiffs multiple options to have their grievances heard.
