John W.Egan
Partner
Labor & Employment
jegan@seyfarth.com
John is an accomplished ADA Title III attorney who represents public accommodations, housing providers, and employers in single-plaintiff and class actions in courts nationwide.
More About John
John has successfully defended clients in matters arising under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Fair Housing Act (FHA), Sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, and all other manner of federal, state and local laws relating to civil rights. John also has substantial experience representing clients in agency proceedings, particularly before the United States Department of Justice, as well as state and municipal enforcement agencies such as the New York State Division of Human Rights and New York City Commission on Human Rights.
As a member of Seyfarth's ADA Title III & Public Access team, John represents public accommodations, housing providers, and public entities nationally in matters involving cutting-edge issues relating to architectural barriers, website accessibility and other forms of effective communication (such as electronic information technology, real-time transcription, sign language interpreters, and documents in alternative formats), accessible transportation, as well as service animals. John has substantial experience defending clients in class action litigation involving the accessibility of websites for individuals with visual and hearing disabilities. He also counsels and works collaboratively with a broad array of stakeholders at Fortune 500 companies to address website-related accessibility issues and matters, litigation risk mitigation, and disability diversity and inclusion initiatives. John is a national thought leader in addressing complex accessibility issues, including those presented by new technologies in the increasingly online, on-demand economy. He routinely conducts presentations and trainings for clients, as well as national CLE providers, on ADA compliance and best practices.
John has substantial experience in all facets of disability access litigation and counseling. His experience ranges from first-chairing the aggressive defense of these cases through summary judgment and trial, negotiating highly favorable and efficient resolutions at the outset of litigation, and counseling on complex and novel areas of accessibility law, particularly in the digital accessibility space. John represents a diverse group of clients, including retailers, colleges and universities, real estate investment trusts, consulting firms, movie theatres, automobile manufacturers, financial service providers, public entities, professional sports teams, nonprofit organizations, restaurants, digital advertising companies, website and mobile app developers, government agencies, and property owners in disability access litigation in various jurisdictions across the country, including New York, Florida, California, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Georgia, Alabama, Arizona, Texas, Nevada, and Washington.
John lectures regularly on emerging disability law issues, frequently contributes to Seyfarth’s ADA Title III News & Insights Blog, has been quoted in prominent publications such as The New York Times, ABA Journal, Corporate Counsel, Crain’s New York Business, and New York Observer, and has appeared as television commentator on Spectrum News - NY1. He is deeply familiar with the unique accessibility requirements in New York State and City, having served as the chair of the Disability Law Committee of the New York City Bar Association from 2017-2020. John is currently an active member of the New York State Bar Association’s Committee On Disability Rights.
In addition, John has a dynamic practice in the area of housing accessibility, where he counsels and defends landlords, developers, condominiums and cooperatives in disability matters arising out of the FHA, as well as state and municipal laws prohibiting discrimination in housing. John frequently collaborates with his Real Estate colleagues to deliver cross-departmental advice, counsel, and representation to New York City boards of condominiums and cooperatives, as well their managing agents, on thorny issues relating to disability accommodations. Additionally, John serves as a strategic advisor to property owners, developers, lenders, and investors in evaluating accessibility issues that arise from due diligence reviews incident to the purchase, sale and financing of real estate. John also counsels and defends employers in matters regarding workplace accommodations for employees with disabilities and leave-related issues.
John is active in Seyfarth’s internal Inclusion and Diversity communities. In his pro bono practice, John counsels and represents veterans and 9/11 First Responders in connection with applications for disability government benefits.
As a member of Seyfarth's ADA Title III & Public Access team, John represents public accommodations, housing providers, and public entities nationally in matters involving cutting-edge issues relating to architectural barriers, website accessibility and other forms of effective communication (such as electronic information technology, real-time transcription, sign language interpreters, and documents in alternative formats), accessible transportation, as well as service animals. John has substantial experience defending clients in class action litigation involving the accessibility of websites for individuals with visual and hearing disabilities. He also counsels and works collaboratively with a broad array of stakeholders at Fortune 500 companies to address website-related accessibility issues and matters, litigation risk mitigation, and disability diversity and inclusion initiatives. John is a national thought leader in addressing complex accessibility issues, including those presented by new technologies in the increasingly online, on-demand economy. He routinely conducts presentations and trainings for clients, as well as national CLE providers, on ADA compliance and best practices.
John has substantial experience in all facets of disability access litigation and counseling. His experience ranges from first-chairing the aggressive defense of these cases through summary judgment and trial, negotiating highly favorable and efficient resolutions at the outset of litigation, and counseling on complex and novel areas of accessibility law, particularly in the digital accessibility space. John represents a diverse group of clients, including retailers, colleges and universities, real estate investment trusts, consulting firms, movie theatres, automobile manufacturers, financial service providers, public entities, professional sports teams, nonprofit organizations, restaurants, digital advertising companies, website and mobile app developers, government agencies, and property owners in disability access litigation in various jurisdictions across the country, including New York, Florida, California, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Georgia, Alabama, Arizona, Texas, Nevada, and Washington.
John lectures regularly on emerging disability law issues, frequently contributes to Seyfarth’s ADA Title III News & Insights Blog, has been quoted in prominent publications such as The New York Times, ABA Journal, Corporate Counsel, Crain’s New York Business, and New York Observer, and has appeared as television commentator on Spectrum News - NY1. He is deeply familiar with the unique accessibility requirements in New York State and City, having served as the chair of the Disability Law Committee of the New York City Bar Association from 2017-2020. John is currently an active member of the New York State Bar Association’s Committee On Disability Rights.
In addition, John has a dynamic practice in the area of housing accessibility, where he counsels and defends landlords, developers, condominiums and cooperatives in disability matters arising out of the FHA, as well as state and municipal laws prohibiting discrimination in housing. John frequently collaborates with his Real Estate colleagues to deliver cross-departmental advice, counsel, and representation to New York City boards of condominiums and cooperatives, as well their managing agents, on thorny issues relating to disability accommodations. Additionally, John serves as a strategic advisor to property owners, developers, lenders, and investors in evaluating accessibility issues that arise from due diligence reviews incident to the purchase, sale and financing of real estate. John also counsels and defends employers in matters regarding workplace accommodations for employees with disabilities and leave-related issues.
John is active in Seyfarth’s internal Inclusion and Diversity communities. In his pro bono practice, John counsels and represents veterans and 9/11 First Responders in connection with applications for disability government benefits.
- JD, Emory University School of Law
Emory International Law Review, editor-in-chief
- BA, State University of New York at Geneseo
Summa cum laude
- New York
- US Court of Appeals, Second Circuit
- US District Court, Eastern District of New York
- US District Court, Southern District of New York
Related Services
Related Key Industries
Blogs
Related News & Insights
-
Blog Post
Jan 16, 2024
Employers Should Take Note Of New Federal Workplace Accessibility Guidance
-
Blog Post
Dec 6, 2023
SCOTUS Punts on Whether ADA “Testers” Have Standing in Acheson v. Laufer
-
Recognition
08/17/2023
210 Seyfarth Attorneys Chosen as Leaders in Their Fields by Best Lawyers in America 2024
-
Blog Post
Jun 12, 2023
Plaintiff-Friendly New York Courts Change Course in Three Recent Decisions in Website Accessibility Cases
- Listed in Best Lawyers in America (Woodward/White Inc.) for Litigation - Labor and Employment (2021-2024)
- Listed in New York Super Lawyers Rising Stars for Employment & Labor (Thomson Reuters) (2015-2017)
- New York State Bar Association, Committee on Disability Rights member, 2022-Present
- Association of the Bar of the City of New York, Disability Law Committee Chair, 2017–2020
- Co-Author, "OCR and DOJ Send A Message to Higher Ed: Make Your Websites Accessible," ADA Title III, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 2, 2023)
- Co-Author, "'Dear Colleague'Letter from OCR and DOJ Puts Colleges and Universities on Notice of Renewed Focus on Website Accessibility," Legal Update, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (May 31, 2023)
- Co-Author, "DOJ Rules Coming on Web Accessibility for State, Local Governments; Businesses Should Pay Attention, Too," Corporate Compliance Insights (August 31, 2022)
- Co-Author, "The Law on Website and Mobile Accessibility Continues to Grow at a Glacial Pace Even as Lawsuit Numbers Reach All-Time Highs," Law Practice Magazine: The TECHSHOW Issue, American Bar Association (January 1, 2022)
- Co-Author, "New NYS Housing Law Requires Notice of Disability Accommodation Rights, But Sample Agency Form Raises Concerns for City Buildings," Legal Update, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 25, 2021)
- Author, "New Florida Law Cracks Down on Bogus Emotional Support Animals," Habitat Magazine (August 26, 2020)
- Author, "Florida Enacts Law To Combat Emotional Support Animal Fraud in Housing," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 19, 2020)
- Co-Author, "Reopening Businesses Face Thorny Customer-Facing ADA Issues," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (May 6, 2020)
- Co-Author, "New York Federal Dockets Flooded With Cases Alleging That Failing To Provide A Gift Card With Braille Violates The ADA," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 4, 2019)
- Co-Author, " New York Lawmakers Plan To Address Website Accessibility," ADA Title III, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (May 20, 2019)
- Co-Author, "Florida Court Dismisses Website Accessibility Case, Clarifying 'Nexus' Requirement For Stating A Claim Under The ADA," ADA Title III, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 8, 2018)
- Co-Author, "New York City Human Rights Law Imposes Stringent Accommodation Requirements for Businesses," Management Alert, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 23, 2018)
- Co-Author, "New York Passes Law Against Service Animal Fraud, Joining Other States," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (January 5, 2018)
- Co-Author, "Don't get collared by poor ‘no pet' policies," Real Estate Weekly (May 15, 2017)
- "Accessible Icon Update: New Federal Guidance Deepens Quandary for Businesses Facing Contradictory State Requirements," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 20, 2017)
- "DOJ Publishes Final Rule Requiring Movie Theaters Nationwide to Provide Closed Captioning and Audio Description," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 2, 2016)
- "Spokeo May Raise the Bar for Standing in ADA Title III Cases," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 1, 2016)
- "New York City Enacts Accessibility Standards for Government Websites," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 14, 2016)
- "New accessible icon law creates quandary for businesses," Real Estate Weekly (June 1, 2015)
- "NY Handicap Icon May Empower Plaintiffs Under ADA," Law360 (May 26, 2015)
- "New York Law Creates Quandary for Businesses with New 'Accessible Icon,'" ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 23, 2015)
- Co-Author, "Ask the Attorney: Reasonable Accommodation for Disabled Residents," Habitat (March 2015)
- Co-Author, "NYC Mayor's Executive Order No. 7: More Employers to Pay the 'Living Wage'," Employee Benefit Plan Review (December 2014)
- Co-Author, "Mayor Expands NYC Living Wage Law," Management Alert, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 10, 2014)
- Co-Author, "Requests for Reasonable Accommodations from NYC Co-Op and Condo Residents Likely to Grow," One Minute Memo, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 13, 2014)
- "Summer Blockbuster: Justice Department Issues Proposed Rule That Would Require Movie Theaters Nationwide to Provide Captioning and Audio Description Listening Devices," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 28, 2014)
- "Combatting Service Animal Fraud: Those Two Questions You Are Allowed To Ask DO Work!" ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (January 23, 2014)
- Co-Author, "Update on the Battle 'Grande': Second Circuit Upholds Starbucks’ Tip Policy," Wage & Hour Litigation Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 25, 2013)
- Co-Author, "The Battle Grande over Starbucks’ Tip Pools: New York Court of Appeals Affirms Starbucks’ Policy," Hospitality Alert, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 12, 2013)
- "Battle 'Grande' over Starbucks' Tip Pools: New York Court of Appeals Establishes the "Meaningful Authority" Standard," Wage & Hour Litigation Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 28, 2013)
- “Historical Restoration Project Not Exempt from ADA Accessibility Requirements,” ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (May 28, 2013)
- Co-Author, “Battle Grande over Starbucks' Tip Pools Continues to Percolate: The New York State Department of Labor Stirs Things Up,” Wage & Hour Litigation Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (May 23, 2013)
- Co-Author, “Individual Arbitration of FLSA Claims: Second Circuit to Decide,” Wage & Hour Litigation Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 20, 2013)
- Co-Author, “Another Brick in the Wall: The NLRB Imposes Broad, Pro-Employee Restrictions on Social Media Policies,” HR Advisor (November/December, 2012)
- Co-Author, “Battle ‘Grande’ Brewing: Second Circuit Certifies Questions over Tip Pooling Statute to the New York Court of Appeals,” Labor & Employment Hospitality Newsletter, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 2012)
- Co-Author, "Battle 'Grande' over Starbucks' Tip Pools Heading to the New York Court of Appeals,"Wage & Hour Litigation Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 2, 2012)
- "3rd Circuit: A Parent Co. Does Not A Joint Employer Make," Law 360 (August 10, 2012)
- “This Car Will Run: Third Circuit Holds That Enterprise Holdings Is Not the Joint Employer of Its Subsidiaries’ Employees,”Wage & Hour Litigation Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 5, 2012)
- “The Future of Criminal Jurisdiction over the Deployed American Soldier: Four Major Trends in Bilateral U.S. Status of Forces Agreements,” Emory International Law Review, Vol. 20 (2006)
- “The Department of Veterans Affairs and the Constitutional Implications of Judicial Review: Veterans’ Due Process Right to Hire Counsel,” Federal Circuit Bar Journal, Vol. 16 (2006)
- Co-Presenter, “How the ADA impacts websites and mobile apps, and what businesses should do about it (2024 Edition),” My Law CLE Webinar (March 26, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, "ADA Title III Disability Access Updates: Hot Issues and Litigation Trends," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 22, 2023)
- Co-Presenter, "ADA Title III Disability Access: Hot Issues and Litigation Trends in the Food and Beverage Industry," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 16, 2022)
- Panelist, "Crystal Ball 2021: Predictions for the ADA Title III Digital Accessibility Legal Landscape," Webinar (April 27, 2021)
- Co-Presenter, "ADA Title III Disability Access Updates: Hot Issues and Litigation Trends," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 19, 2021)
- Co-Presenter, "ADA Title III Pandemic Year Updates: Hot Issues and Litigation Trends," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 11, 2021)
- Co-Presenter, "Website Accessibility for Higher Education: Recent Legal and Compliance Trends and How to Respond," Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference (AHEAD) (November 17, 2020)
- Presenter, "Disability Accommodations in Housing: Emerging Issues, New York State Bar Association," Cooperative and Condominium Section (October 20, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Litigating ADA Title III Claims: Websites/Mobile Apps, COVID-19, Physical Accessibility, Landlord-Tenant Issues," Strafford Webinar (October 13, 2020)
-
Co-Presenter, "Hot Topics in Disability Access and Inclusion," Webinar, New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers (June 25, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Reviewing Accessibility Standards and Compliance," Webinar, HalfMoon Education’s New York Construction Law (June 16, 2020)
-
Co-Presenter, "Return to Business: How to Serve Guests with Disabilities While Implementing COVID-19 Safety Measures," Webinar, American Hotel and Lodging Association (May 27, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Return to Business: Serving Customers with Disabilities While Implementing COVID-19 Safety Measures," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (May 20, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Risky Business: Recent Developments in Digital Accessibility Litigation and Strategies to Respond," Webinar, The Paciello Group (May 14, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Federal Website Access Lawsuits," Webinar, International Association of Accessibility Professionals (April 29, 2020)
- Lead Panelist and Moderator, "Workplace Accommodations and the Cooperative Dialogue," 5th Annual Employment Law Institute, New York City Bar Association (March 8, 2019)
- Co-Presenter, "Website, Mobile App, and Kiosk Accessibility Lawsuits Under Title III of the ADA: A Legal Update," Webinar, presented by Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 13, 2019)
- Co-Moderator, "Recent 'Cooperative Dialogue' Amendment to the New York City Human Rights Law," New York City Bar Association (November 13, 2018)
- Moderator, "Website Accessibility Panel," New York Intellectual Property Lawyers Association (July 17, 2018)
- Presenter, "Website Disability Access Lawsuits: The Ongoing Assault on Businesses and How to Respond," Webinar, presented by Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 4, 2018)
- Chair and Moderator, "Disability Law Forum: Accessibility Updates in the Areas of Access to Justice, the Legal Profession, Housing and More," New York City Bar Association (November 2, 2017)
- Moderator and Speaker, "ADA Title III Symposium: Disability Access Litigation, Compliance, and New Developments," Client Event, presented by Seyfarth Shaw LLP, Atlanta, GA (May 17, 2017)
- Speaker, "ADA Compliance for Real Estate Owners: Avoiding and Responding to Drive-By Claims and Enforcement Actions - - Understanding the ADA Regulatory Framework and Potential for Abusive Litigation," Strafford Webinar (Feb. 14, 2017)
- Moderator, "Service and Companion Animals: Changing Federal, New York State, and New York City Laws for Landlords, Developers, Schools and Public Accommodations," Disability Law Forum at the New York City Bar Association (October 13, 2016)
- Speaker, "Accommodation in Action: Best Practices for Employers," All Abilities Group of the Greater New York and New Jersey Chapters of the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) (September 19, 2016)
- Speaker, "Accommodating Residents with Disabilities: What Housing Providers Need to Know," New York State Bar Association, Real Estate Section (Condominiums and Cooperatives Committee) (January 29, 2015)
- Speaker, "Requests for Reasonable Accommodations: Challenges, Strategies, and Perspectives," Breakfast Briefing, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 19, 2014)
- "ADA Title III Issues: Real Estate Roundtable Management Roundtable," presented by Seyfarth Shaw (March 19, 2014)
- Quoted, "Online ADA compliance? Attorneys look forward to regulations as caseload rises," The Indiana Lawyer (May 24, 2023)
- Referenced, "Down to Business: Number of website-accessibility lawsuits continues to climb," The Daily Gazette (July 6, 2022)
- Quoted, “Requiring vaccine proof puts restaurateurs on the spot,” Crain’s New York Business (November 16, 2021)
- Quoted, “Compromise Required When Disabilities Clash With City Codes,” Habitat Magazine (November 15, 2021)
- Quoted, “I Am Disabled. Why Can’t I Keep My Walker Outside My Front Door?,” The New York Times (November 13, 2021)
- Interviewed, “Surge in Lawsuits by Small Group of New Yorkers with Disabilities Draws Scrutiny,” Spectrum News NY 1 (October 24, 2019)
After website access cases resolved:
"I have been quite impressed with . . . how you have handled the case but, more importantly, how you treated me as a client. I have worked with attorneys in the past and some make it abundantly clear they are (or think they are) the smartest person in the room. They use robust language and talk down to clients and get frustrated with the questions that come from a client who does not have a legal background. . . . you made me feel at ease and welcome to ask questions about anything. Your emails to me were always clear and concise and helped me greatly. You made this situation feel like a partnership instead of an attorney and client relationship and I appreciate that very much." - Client feedback
"I would again like to thank you and your team for your efforts to resolve this matter as favorably as reasonably possible. You rate five stars; however, I hope you never have to represent the College again. I will recommend you to my associates at other institutions." —Client feedback
"Thank you very much. ... You and John did an excellent job with the resolution of this litigation. We all were very impressed by your work and your firm. We've since contacted your Boston office to do some Title IX work." —Client feedback
After securing walk-away resolution of federal accessibility lawsuit based on anticipated motion:
"That's awesome news! Thank you for the update and great progress overall. ... Thanks for all the great work." —Client feedback
John is an accomplished ADA Title III attorney who represents public accommodations, housing providers, and employers in single-plaintiff and class actions in courts nationwide.
More About John
John has successfully defended clients in matters arising under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Fair Housing Act (FHA), Sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, and all other manner of federal, state and local laws relating to civil rights. John also has substantial experience representing clients in agency proceedings, particularly before the United States Department of Justice, as well as state and municipal enforcement agencies such as the New York State Division of Human Rights and New York City Commission on Human Rights.
As a member of Seyfarth's ADA Title III & Public Access team, John represents public accommodations, housing providers, and public entities nationally in matters involving cutting-edge issues relating to architectural barriers, website accessibility and other forms of effective communication (such as electronic information technology, real-time transcription, sign language interpreters, and documents in alternative formats), accessible transportation, as well as service animals. John has substantial experience defending clients in class action litigation involving the accessibility of websites for individuals with visual and hearing disabilities. He also counsels and works collaboratively with a broad array of stakeholders at Fortune 500 companies to address website-related accessibility issues and matters, litigation risk mitigation, and disability diversity and inclusion initiatives. John is a national thought leader in addressing complex accessibility issues, including those presented by new technologies in the increasingly online, on-demand economy. He routinely conducts presentations and trainings for clients, as well as national CLE providers, on ADA compliance and best practices.
John has substantial experience in all facets of disability access litigation and counseling. His experience ranges from first-chairing the aggressive defense of these cases through summary judgment and trial, negotiating highly favorable and efficient resolutions at the outset of litigation, and counseling on complex and novel areas of accessibility law, particularly in the digital accessibility space. John represents a diverse group of clients, including retailers, colleges and universities, real estate investment trusts, consulting firms, movie theatres, automobile manufacturers, financial service providers, public entities, professional sports teams, nonprofit organizations, restaurants, digital advertising companies, website and mobile app developers, government agencies, and property owners in disability access litigation in various jurisdictions across the country, including New York, Florida, California, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Georgia, Alabama, Arizona, Texas, Nevada, and Washington.
John lectures regularly on emerging disability law issues, frequently contributes to Seyfarth’s ADA Title III News & Insights Blog, has been quoted in prominent publications such as The New York Times, ABA Journal, Corporate Counsel, Crain’s New York Business, and New York Observer, and has appeared as television commentator on Spectrum News - NY1. He is deeply familiar with the unique accessibility requirements in New York State and City, having served as the chair of the Disability Law Committee of the New York City Bar Association from 2017-2020. John is currently an active member of the New York State Bar Association’s Committee On Disability Rights.
In addition, John has a dynamic practice in the area of housing accessibility, where he counsels and defends landlords, developers, condominiums and cooperatives in disability matters arising out of the FHA, as well as state and municipal laws prohibiting discrimination in housing. John frequently collaborates with his Real Estate colleagues to deliver cross-departmental advice, counsel, and representation to New York City boards of condominiums and cooperatives, as well their managing agents, on thorny issues relating to disability accommodations. Additionally, John serves as a strategic advisor to property owners, developers, lenders, and investors in evaluating accessibility issues that arise from due diligence reviews incident to the purchase, sale and financing of real estate. John also counsels and defends employers in matters regarding workplace accommodations for employees with disabilities and leave-related issues.
John is active in Seyfarth’s internal Inclusion and Diversity communities. In his pro bono practice, John counsels and represents veterans and 9/11 First Responders in connection with applications for disability government benefits.
As a member of Seyfarth's ADA Title III & Public Access team, John represents public accommodations, housing providers, and public entities nationally in matters involving cutting-edge issues relating to architectural barriers, website accessibility and other forms of effective communication (such as electronic information technology, real-time transcription, sign language interpreters, and documents in alternative formats), accessible transportation, as well as service animals. John has substantial experience defending clients in class action litigation involving the accessibility of websites for individuals with visual and hearing disabilities. He also counsels and works collaboratively with a broad array of stakeholders at Fortune 500 companies to address website-related accessibility issues and matters, litigation risk mitigation, and disability diversity and inclusion initiatives. John is a national thought leader in addressing complex accessibility issues, including those presented by new technologies in the increasingly online, on-demand economy. He routinely conducts presentations and trainings for clients, as well as national CLE providers, on ADA compliance and best practices.
John has substantial experience in all facets of disability access litigation and counseling. His experience ranges from first-chairing the aggressive defense of these cases through summary judgment and trial, negotiating highly favorable and efficient resolutions at the outset of litigation, and counseling on complex and novel areas of accessibility law, particularly in the digital accessibility space. John represents a diverse group of clients, including retailers, colleges and universities, real estate investment trusts, consulting firms, movie theatres, automobile manufacturers, financial service providers, public entities, professional sports teams, nonprofit organizations, restaurants, digital advertising companies, website and mobile app developers, government agencies, and property owners in disability access litigation in various jurisdictions across the country, including New York, Florida, California, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Georgia, Alabama, Arizona, Texas, Nevada, and Washington.
John lectures regularly on emerging disability law issues, frequently contributes to Seyfarth’s ADA Title III News & Insights Blog, has been quoted in prominent publications such as The New York Times, ABA Journal, Corporate Counsel, Crain’s New York Business, and New York Observer, and has appeared as television commentator on Spectrum News - NY1. He is deeply familiar with the unique accessibility requirements in New York State and City, having served as the chair of the Disability Law Committee of the New York City Bar Association from 2017-2020. John is currently an active member of the New York State Bar Association’s Committee On Disability Rights.
In addition, John has a dynamic practice in the area of housing accessibility, where he counsels and defends landlords, developers, condominiums and cooperatives in disability matters arising out of the FHA, as well as state and municipal laws prohibiting discrimination in housing. John frequently collaborates with his Real Estate colleagues to deliver cross-departmental advice, counsel, and representation to New York City boards of condominiums and cooperatives, as well their managing agents, on thorny issues relating to disability accommodations. Additionally, John serves as a strategic advisor to property owners, developers, lenders, and investors in evaluating accessibility issues that arise from due diligence reviews incident to the purchase, sale and financing of real estate. John also counsels and defends employers in matters regarding workplace accommodations for employees with disabilities and leave-related issues.
John is active in Seyfarth’s internal Inclusion and Diversity communities. In his pro bono practice, John counsels and represents veterans and 9/11 First Responders in connection with applications for disability government benefits.
- JD, Emory University School of Law
Emory International Law Review, editor-in-chief
- BA, State University of New York at Geneseo
Summa cum laude
- New York
- US Court of Appeals, Second Circuit
- US District Court, Eastern District of New York
- US District Court, Southern District of New York
Related Services
Related Key Industries
Blogs
Related News & Insights
-
Blog Post
Jan 16, 2024
Employers Should Take Note Of New Federal Workplace Accessibility Guidance
-
Blog Post
Dec 6, 2023
SCOTUS Punts on Whether ADA “Testers” Have Standing in Acheson v. Laufer
-
Recognition
08/17/2023
210 Seyfarth Attorneys Chosen as Leaders in Their Fields by Best Lawyers in America 2024
-
Blog Post
Jun 12, 2023
Plaintiff-Friendly New York Courts Change Course in Three Recent Decisions in Website Accessibility Cases
- Listed in Best Lawyers in America (Woodward/White Inc.) for Litigation - Labor and Employment (2021-2024)
- Listed in New York Super Lawyers Rising Stars for Employment & Labor (Thomson Reuters) (2015-2017)
- New York State Bar Association, Committee on Disability Rights member, 2022-Present
- Association of the Bar of the City of New York, Disability Law Committee Chair, 2017–2020
- Co-Author, "OCR and DOJ Send A Message to Higher Ed: Make Your Websites Accessible," ADA Title III, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 2, 2023)
- Co-Author, "'Dear Colleague'Letter from OCR and DOJ Puts Colleges and Universities on Notice of Renewed Focus on Website Accessibility," Legal Update, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (May 31, 2023)
- Co-Author, "DOJ Rules Coming on Web Accessibility for State, Local Governments; Businesses Should Pay Attention, Too," Corporate Compliance Insights (August 31, 2022)
- Co-Author, "The Law on Website and Mobile Accessibility Continues to Grow at a Glacial Pace Even as Lawsuit Numbers Reach All-Time Highs," Law Practice Magazine: The TECHSHOW Issue, American Bar Association (January 1, 2022)
- Co-Author, "New NYS Housing Law Requires Notice of Disability Accommodation Rights, But Sample Agency Form Raises Concerns for City Buildings," Legal Update, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 25, 2021)
- Author, "New Florida Law Cracks Down on Bogus Emotional Support Animals," Habitat Magazine (August 26, 2020)
- Author, "Florida Enacts Law To Combat Emotional Support Animal Fraud in Housing," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 19, 2020)
- Co-Author, "Reopening Businesses Face Thorny Customer-Facing ADA Issues," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (May 6, 2020)
- Co-Author, "New York Federal Dockets Flooded With Cases Alleging That Failing To Provide A Gift Card With Braille Violates The ADA," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 4, 2019)
- Co-Author, " New York Lawmakers Plan To Address Website Accessibility," ADA Title III, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (May 20, 2019)
- Co-Author, "Florida Court Dismisses Website Accessibility Case, Clarifying 'Nexus' Requirement For Stating A Claim Under The ADA," ADA Title III, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 8, 2018)
- Co-Author, "New York City Human Rights Law Imposes Stringent Accommodation Requirements for Businesses," Management Alert, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 23, 2018)
- Co-Author, "New York Passes Law Against Service Animal Fraud, Joining Other States," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (January 5, 2018)
- Co-Author, "Don't get collared by poor ‘no pet' policies," Real Estate Weekly (May 15, 2017)
- "Accessible Icon Update: New Federal Guidance Deepens Quandary for Businesses Facing Contradictory State Requirements," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 20, 2017)
- "DOJ Publishes Final Rule Requiring Movie Theaters Nationwide to Provide Closed Captioning and Audio Description," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 2, 2016)
- "Spokeo May Raise the Bar for Standing in ADA Title III Cases," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 1, 2016)
- "New York City Enacts Accessibility Standards for Government Websites," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 14, 2016)
- "New accessible icon law creates quandary for businesses," Real Estate Weekly (June 1, 2015)
- "NY Handicap Icon May Empower Plaintiffs Under ADA," Law360 (May 26, 2015)
- "New York Law Creates Quandary for Businesses with New 'Accessible Icon,'" ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 23, 2015)
- Co-Author, "Ask the Attorney: Reasonable Accommodation for Disabled Residents," Habitat (March 2015)
- Co-Author, "NYC Mayor's Executive Order No. 7: More Employers to Pay the 'Living Wage'," Employee Benefit Plan Review (December 2014)
- Co-Author, "Mayor Expands NYC Living Wage Law," Management Alert, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 10, 2014)
- Co-Author, "Requests for Reasonable Accommodations from NYC Co-Op and Condo Residents Likely to Grow," One Minute Memo, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 13, 2014)
- "Summer Blockbuster: Justice Department Issues Proposed Rule That Would Require Movie Theaters Nationwide to Provide Captioning and Audio Description Listening Devices," ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 28, 2014)
- "Combatting Service Animal Fraud: Those Two Questions You Are Allowed To Ask DO Work!" ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (January 23, 2014)
- Co-Author, "Update on the Battle 'Grande': Second Circuit Upholds Starbucks’ Tip Policy," Wage & Hour Litigation Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 25, 2013)
- Co-Author, "The Battle Grande over Starbucks’ Tip Pools: New York Court of Appeals Affirms Starbucks’ Policy," Hospitality Alert, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 12, 2013)
- "Battle 'Grande' over Starbucks' Tip Pools: New York Court of Appeals Establishes the "Meaningful Authority" Standard," Wage & Hour Litigation Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 28, 2013)
- “Historical Restoration Project Not Exempt from ADA Accessibility Requirements,” ADA Title III Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (May 28, 2013)
- Co-Author, “Battle Grande over Starbucks' Tip Pools Continues to Percolate: The New York State Department of Labor Stirs Things Up,” Wage & Hour Litigation Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (May 23, 2013)
- Co-Author, “Individual Arbitration of FLSA Claims: Second Circuit to Decide,” Wage & Hour Litigation Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 20, 2013)
- Co-Author, “Another Brick in the Wall: The NLRB Imposes Broad, Pro-Employee Restrictions on Social Media Policies,” HR Advisor (November/December, 2012)
- Co-Author, “Battle ‘Grande’ Brewing: Second Circuit Certifies Questions over Tip Pooling Statute to the New York Court of Appeals,” Labor & Employment Hospitality Newsletter, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 2012)
- Co-Author, "Battle 'Grande' over Starbucks' Tip Pools Heading to the New York Court of Appeals,"Wage & Hour Litigation Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 2, 2012)
- "3rd Circuit: A Parent Co. Does Not A Joint Employer Make," Law 360 (August 10, 2012)
- “This Car Will Run: Third Circuit Holds That Enterprise Holdings Is Not the Joint Employer of Its Subsidiaries’ Employees,”Wage & Hour Litigation Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 5, 2012)
- “The Future of Criminal Jurisdiction over the Deployed American Soldier: Four Major Trends in Bilateral U.S. Status of Forces Agreements,” Emory International Law Review, Vol. 20 (2006)
- “The Department of Veterans Affairs and the Constitutional Implications of Judicial Review: Veterans’ Due Process Right to Hire Counsel,” Federal Circuit Bar Journal, Vol. 16 (2006)
- Co-Presenter, “How the ADA impacts websites and mobile apps, and what businesses should do about it (2024 Edition),” My Law CLE Webinar (March 26, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, "ADA Title III Disability Access Updates: Hot Issues and Litigation Trends," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 22, 2023)
- Co-Presenter, "ADA Title III Disability Access: Hot Issues and Litigation Trends in the Food and Beverage Industry," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 16, 2022)
- Panelist, "Crystal Ball 2021: Predictions for the ADA Title III Digital Accessibility Legal Landscape," Webinar (April 27, 2021)
- Co-Presenter, "ADA Title III Disability Access Updates: Hot Issues and Litigation Trends," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 19, 2021)
- Co-Presenter, "ADA Title III Pandemic Year Updates: Hot Issues and Litigation Trends," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 11, 2021)
- Co-Presenter, "Website Accessibility for Higher Education: Recent Legal and Compliance Trends and How to Respond," Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference (AHEAD) (November 17, 2020)
- Presenter, "Disability Accommodations in Housing: Emerging Issues, New York State Bar Association," Cooperative and Condominium Section (October 20, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Litigating ADA Title III Claims: Websites/Mobile Apps, COVID-19, Physical Accessibility, Landlord-Tenant Issues," Strafford Webinar (October 13, 2020)
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Co-Presenter, "Hot Topics in Disability Access and Inclusion," Webinar, New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers (June 25, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Reviewing Accessibility Standards and Compliance," Webinar, HalfMoon Education’s New York Construction Law (June 16, 2020)
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Co-Presenter, "Return to Business: How to Serve Guests with Disabilities While Implementing COVID-19 Safety Measures," Webinar, American Hotel and Lodging Association (May 27, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Return to Business: Serving Customers with Disabilities While Implementing COVID-19 Safety Measures," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (May 20, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Risky Business: Recent Developments in Digital Accessibility Litigation and Strategies to Respond," Webinar, The Paciello Group (May 14, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Federal Website Access Lawsuits," Webinar, International Association of Accessibility Professionals (April 29, 2020)
- Lead Panelist and Moderator, "Workplace Accommodations and the Cooperative Dialogue," 5th Annual Employment Law Institute, New York City Bar Association (March 8, 2019)
- Co-Presenter, "Website, Mobile App, and Kiosk Accessibility Lawsuits Under Title III of the ADA: A Legal Update," Webinar, presented by Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 13, 2019)
- Co-Moderator, "Recent 'Cooperative Dialogue' Amendment to the New York City Human Rights Law," New York City Bar Association (November 13, 2018)
- Moderator, "Website Accessibility Panel," New York Intellectual Property Lawyers Association (July 17, 2018)
- Presenter, "Website Disability Access Lawsuits: The Ongoing Assault on Businesses and How to Respond," Webinar, presented by Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 4, 2018)
- Chair and Moderator, "Disability Law Forum: Accessibility Updates in the Areas of Access to Justice, the Legal Profession, Housing and More," New York City Bar Association (November 2, 2017)
- Moderator and Speaker, "ADA Title III Symposium: Disability Access Litigation, Compliance, and New Developments," Client Event, presented by Seyfarth Shaw LLP, Atlanta, GA (May 17, 2017)
- Speaker, "ADA Compliance for Real Estate Owners: Avoiding and Responding to Drive-By Claims and Enforcement Actions - - Understanding the ADA Regulatory Framework and Potential for Abusive Litigation," Strafford Webinar (Feb. 14, 2017)
- Moderator, "Service and Companion Animals: Changing Federal, New York State, and New York City Laws for Landlords, Developers, Schools and Public Accommodations," Disability Law Forum at the New York City Bar Association (October 13, 2016)
- Speaker, "Accommodation in Action: Best Practices for Employers," All Abilities Group of the Greater New York and New Jersey Chapters of the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) (September 19, 2016)
- Speaker, "Accommodating Residents with Disabilities: What Housing Providers Need to Know," New York State Bar Association, Real Estate Section (Condominiums and Cooperatives Committee) (January 29, 2015)
- Speaker, "Requests for Reasonable Accommodations: Challenges, Strategies, and Perspectives," Breakfast Briefing, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 19, 2014)
- "ADA Title III Issues: Real Estate Roundtable Management Roundtable," presented by Seyfarth Shaw (March 19, 2014)
- Quoted, "Online ADA compliance? Attorneys look forward to regulations as caseload rises," The Indiana Lawyer (May 24, 2023)
- Referenced, "Down to Business: Number of website-accessibility lawsuits continues to climb," The Daily Gazette (July 6, 2022)
- Quoted, “Requiring vaccine proof puts restaurateurs on the spot,” Crain’s New York Business (November 16, 2021)
- Quoted, “Compromise Required When Disabilities Clash With City Codes,” Habitat Magazine (November 15, 2021)
- Quoted, “I Am Disabled. Why Can’t I Keep My Walker Outside My Front Door?,” The New York Times (November 13, 2021)
- Interviewed, “Surge in Lawsuits by Small Group of New Yorkers with Disabilities Draws Scrutiny,” Spectrum News NY 1 (October 24, 2019)
After website access cases resolved:
"I have been quite impressed with . . . how you have handled the case but, more importantly, how you treated me as a client. I have worked with attorneys in the past and some make it abundantly clear they are (or think they are) the smartest person in the room. They use robust language and talk down to clients and get frustrated with the questions that come from a client who does not have a legal background. . . . you made me feel at ease and welcome to ask questions about anything. Your emails to me were always clear and concise and helped me greatly. You made this situation feel like a partnership instead of an attorney and client relationship and I appreciate that very much." - Client feedback
"I would again like to thank you and your team for your efforts to resolve this matter as favorably as reasonably possible. You rate five stars; however, I hope you never have to represent the College again. I will recommend you to my associates at other institutions." —Client feedback
"Thank you very much. ... You and John did an excellent job with the resolution of this litigation. We all were very impressed by your work and your firm. We've since contacted your Boston office to do some Title IX work." —Client feedback
After securing walk-away resolution of federal accessibility lawsuit based on anticipated motion:
"That's awesome news! Thank you for the update and great progress overall. ... Thanks for all the great work." —Client feedback