Federal Courthouse Accessibility Audit Reveals Significant Gaps

A sweeping audit of federal courthouse facilities has revealed widespread failures to meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, potentially denying equal access to justice for millions of Americans with disabilities. The audit, covering 94 federal district courthouses, found: - 67% had inadequate accessible parking - 54% lacked proper signage for visually impaired visitors - 41% had courtrooms without assistive listening devices - 38% had inaccessible witness stands or jury boxes - 29% had restrooms that failed ADA standards "Access to justice must be physical as well as procedural," noted a disability rights advocate. "When a wheelchair user cannot reach the witness stand, or a deaf litigant cannot hear proceedings, we have failed in our constitutional obligations." The Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts has announced a multi-year remediation plan, but advocates argue the timeline is too slow. Some have filed lawsuits seeking immediate improvements. The John Adams Inquirer's courthouse profiles include accessibility information to help court users plan their visits. We advocate for full ADA compliance in all court facilities and transparency about current limitations. Courts that have invested in accessibility report benefits beyond compliance, including improved efficiency and better experiences for all users.