Plaintiff
- Name: Z’Leah Liburd
- Filing Date: January 29, 2026
- Court: United States District Court Middle District of Florida
- State: Florida
- Attorney Firm: Equal Access Law Group, PLLC
Defendant
- Name: Berns Steak House, Inc.
- Website: bernssteakhouse.com
- Industry: Food & Staples Retailing
- Standards Cited: WCAG 2.2 AA
- Summary: Operates a restaurant services platform offering fine-dining options including steaks, seafood, and an award-winning wine program, allowing online reservations and providing information about dining policies.
Case Summary
According to the complaint, Plaintiff Z’LEAH LIBURD, a visually-impaired individual, alleges that Berns Steak House, Inc. operates a website that is inaccessible to blind users, violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The complaint details multiple barriers encountered by the Plaintiff while attempting to use the website, including issues with screen reader compatibility and navigation difficulties. The Plaintiff seeks a permanent injunction requiring the Defendant to make its website accessible, along with damages and legal fees. The case highlights the importance of digital accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Causes of Action
- Violations of the ADA, 42 U.S.C. § 12182, et seq.
- Declaratory Relief
Key Allegations
- Defendant's website is not accessible to blind and visually-impaired individuals.
- Plaintiff encountered multiple accessibility barriers preventing her from making a reservation.
- Defendant's website lacks compatibility with screen-reading software.
Requested Relief
- Preliminary and permanent injunction to comply with the ADA.
- Declaration of discrimination against blind individuals.
- Payment of nominal damages.
- Pre- and post-judgment interest.
- Award of costs and reasonable attorneys’ fees.
Jurisdiction & Venue
This Court has subject-matter jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C. § 1331 and 42 U.S.C. § 12182; venue is proper under 28 U.S.C. § 1391(b)(1-2).
