William Odonnell v. Lyons Group, Ltd.

Case Summary

According to the complaint, William Odonnell, a legally blind individual, is suing Lyons Group, Ltd. for failing to make its website, www.rochambeauboston.com, accessible to blind users, which he alleges violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The plaintiff claims he encountered numerous barriers while attempting to navigate the website using screen reader technology, including inadequate focus order and lack of alternative text for images. He seeks a permanent injunction requiring the defendant to improve the website's accessibility and to implement corporate policies to ensure ongoing compliance with the ADA. The plaintiff also requests attorneys' fees and other relief.

Causes of Action

• Violation of 42 U.S.C. §§ 12181, et seq., Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act
• Declaratory Relief

Key Allegations

• Defendant's website is not accessible to blind individuals
• Plaintiff encountered multiple access barriers while using the website
• Defendant has failed to implement adequate corporate policies for accessibility

Requested Relief

• Preliminary and permanent injunction to prohibit Defendant from violating the ADA
• Injunction requiring Defendant to make the Website compliant with the ADA
• Declaration that Defendant's website discriminates against the blind
• Plaintiff's reasonable attorneys' fees and costs
• Pre- and post-judgment interest

Jurisdiction & Venue

This Court has subject matter jurisdiction pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1331 and 42 U.S.C. § 12188; venue is proper in the District of Massachusetts.