Best Disability Lawyers in Glendale

About Disability Law in Glendale, United States

Disability law in Glendale, California, is established to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities, ensuring equal access and protection in areas such as employment, housing, education, and public services. Glendale residents are covered under both federal and state laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), which outline the rights and accommodations available for people with physical and mental impairments. Local administrations, businesses, schools, and property owners are required to comply with these laws to prevent discrimination and provide reasonable accommodations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where individuals in Glendale may need the help of a legal professional skilled in disability law. Some common circumstances include:

• Experiencing discrimination at work, school, or when accessing public services due to a disability.
• Having difficulty securing reasonable accommodations from employers, schools, or landlords.
• Facing denial of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits and needing to appeal a decision.
• Encountering problems with healthcare access or insurance coverage related to a disability.
• Experiencing retaliation or harassment after requesting an accommodation or asserting disability rights.

A lawyer can help by assessing your situation, explaining your rights, guiding you through the complaint or appeals process, negotiating on your behalf, and representing you in legal proceedings, if necessary.

Local Laws Overview

In Glendale, residents with disabilities are protected by several overlapping local, state, and federal laws:

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) - A federal law requiring accessibility and prohibiting discrimination in public life, employment, and government services for individuals with disabilities.
• California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) - Offers additional protections in employment and housing, and often covers a broader range of disabilities than federal law.
• California Disabled Persons Act - Ensures access to public facilities and services for individuals with disabilities.
• Glendale City Ordinances - Local codes sometimes offer additional protections, such as ensuring accessible city facilities or protecting against specific forms of discrimination.
• Education Laws - Students with disabilities are protected under IDEA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and California state education laws, ensuring access to special education and accommodations.

These laws require employers, service providers, schools, and landlords to provide reasonable accommodations unless doing so poses an undue hardship or fundamentally alters their operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered a disability under the law in Glendale?

A disability is defined as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This includes conditions like mobility impairments, visual or auditory impairments, chronic illnesses, and some mental health conditions.

Can my employer fire me because of my disability?

No, both federal and California law protect employees from being fired due to a disability. Employers must provide reasonable accommodations and cannot discriminate based on disability status.

What is a reasonable accommodation?

A reasonable accommodation is a change or adjustment to a job, work environment, or the way tasks are usually done that enables a person with a disability to have an equal opportunity to apply for a job, perform job functions, or receive employment benefits.

What should I do if I think I have been discriminated against?

If you believe you have experienced discrimination in Glendale, gather any supporting documents, make note of the details, and consider contacting a disability rights attorney or a government agency like the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) for guidance on how to proceed.

Can students with disabilities get special help in schools in Glendale?

Yes, students with disabilities have the right to request Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or Section 504 Plans for accommodations and support in public schools and some private schools.

How can I apply for Social Security Disability Benefits?

You can apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) by submitting an application to the Social Security Administration, either online, by phone, or at a local office. A lawyer can help if your application is denied.

Are public places in Glendale required to be accessible?

Yes, under the ADA and state law, public businesses, government buildings, and most places open to the public must provide accessible entrances, restrooms, and services for people with disabilities.

What are my rights as a renter with a disability in Glendale?

Renters with disabilities have the right to request reasonable modifications to their living space and reasonable accommodations in rules and policies. Landlords generally must approve these requests unless they pose an undue burden or fundamentally alter the property.

Can I be denied coverage based on my disability by a health insurance provider?

Under federal and state law, it is unlawful for health insurance providers to deny coverage or charge higher premiums because of a pre-existing disability.

What deadlines apply if I want to file a disability discrimination complaint?

Deadlines vary depending on the type of claim. For employment or housing discrimination under state law, you typically have one year from the incident to file a complaint, but it is best to act as soon as possible.

Additional Resources

Several organizations and government bodies offer support, advocacy, and legal information to individuals with disabilities in Glendale:

• California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH): Handles complaints of disability discrimination in employment and housing.
• Disability Rights California: Offers free legal advocacy and support for Californians with disabilities.
• Social Security Administration (SSA): Provides information and access to disability benefits programs.
• Glendale Community Services and Parks - Community Resource Centers: Offers programs and referrals for people with disabilities.
• ADA National Network: Provides technical assistance and information on disability rights laws.

Next Steps

If you believe your rights have been violated or you need advice on disability matters in Glendale, consider the following steps:

• Document the Issue: Keep detailed records of any incidents, communications, and relevant documents.
• Seek Legal Consultation: Contact a lawyer specializing in disability law for a case evaluation. Many offer free initial consultations.
• Contact Relevant Agencies: Reach out to government bodies like the DFEH or SSA for guidance and to file complaints if needed.
• Access Local Support Services: Utilize community resources and advocacy groups for additional support and information.
• Know the Deadlines: Be aware of the specific time limits for filing complaints or appeals to protect your rights.

Taking prompt action can help ensure your legal rights are protected and improve the outcome of your case.