Filing a complaint with the Department of Justice (DOJ) triggers a structured process aimed at enforcing accessibility laws. Websites that fail to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), WCAG standards, or other U.S. accessibility regulations can face legal investigation, required remediation, and in some cases, fines. This article explains the DOJ complaint process, what website owners can expect, and how complaints are enforced, helping users understand the stakes of digital accessibility.
Understanding DOJ Website Complaints
The DOJ enforces accessibility laws for websites under ADA Title III and other federal regulations.
Key points:
- ADA Compliance: Websites for public businesses must be accessible
- Legal Authority: DOJ investigates complaints and mediates resolutions
- Impact of Complaints: Can result in voluntary compliance, settlement agreements, or lawsuits
Case studies of DOJ involvement:
Step 1 — Filing a Complaint with the DOJ
The complaint must be submitted with clear evidence and references to accessibility laws.
Process Overview:
- Prepare Documentation: Screenshots, URLs, videos showing accessibility barriers
- Include Personal Details: Name, email, phone for DOJ follow-up
- Reference Law: ADA Title III, WCAG 2.1 AA, or other applicable guidelines
- Submit via DOJ Portal: Online ADA complaint form or via mail
Step 2 — DOJ Review and Acknowledgment
After submission, the DOJ reviews the complaint to determine jurisdiction and validity.
- DOJ confirms receipt of the complaint
- Assigns a case number for tracking
- Determines if the issue falls under federal ADA enforcement
- Contacts the website owner about the reported violation
Step 3 — Investigation and Evidence Gathering
The DOJ investigates whether the website violates accessibility laws.
- Website Review: DOJ may audit the site for compliance
- Technical Evaluation: Screen readers, mobile accessibility, forms, captions, color contrast
- Communication with Website Owner: DOJ notifies owners and requests remediation plans
Blind Patient Clinic | Discord Accessibility Suit
Step 4 — Resolution or Enforcement Action
Depending on findings, the DOJ may facilitate a settlement or take legal action.
Possible outcomes:
- Voluntary Compliance: Website owner agrees to fix accessibility issues
- Settlement Agreement: Legally binding plan for remediation, often with deadlines
- Civil Litigation: DOJ may file a lawsuit if the owner refuses compliance
Fashion Nova Settlement | Small eCommerce Retailer
Step 5 — Timeline and Follow-Up
The DOJ process can take weeks to months, depending on complexity.
- Initial review: 1–2 weeks
- Investigation: 2–12 weeks or longer
- Settlement or enforcement: Varies based on cooperation
- Follow-up: DOJ monitors compliance and may reopen case if violations persist
Why DOJ Complaints Matter
Complaints hold website owners accountable and protect users with disabilities.
- Ensure legal compliance with ADA
- Encourage accessible web experiences
- Prevent potential lawsuits or fines
- Promote inclusion for all users
Tips for Filing an Effective DOJ Complaint
Maximize the impact and likelihood of resolution.
- Provide clear evidence: screenshots, videos, URLs
- Reference specific laws and guidelines
- Describe the impact on accessibility
- Be professional and factual
- Follow up politely with DOJ for updates
FAQ — DOJ Website Complaints
Can anyone file a DOJ complaint?
Yes, any individual experiencing accessibility barriers can file a complaint against a website.
Does filing a complaint guarantee a fine?
Not always; DOJ first seeks voluntary compliance and settlements before litigation.
How long does DOJ take to respond?
Initial acknowledgment usually occurs within 1–2 weeks, with investigations taking several weeks or months.
Can businesses dispute DOJ findings?
Yes, website owners can provide evidence and remediation plans during the review process.
Will my complaint remain confidential?
The DOJ maintains privacy, but details may be shared with the website owner as part of the investigation.
Take Action for Accessible Websites
Non-compliant websites harm users with disabilities and expose businesses to DOJ investigation. Ensure your website is fully accessible today with professional compliance solutions.
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