12/24/25
Episode Summary
Guest & Topic
- Host Scott Austin brings on attorney Brenda Pagliaro to explain ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance as it applies to e-commerce websites, especially Shopify stores.
Key Points
- ADA compliance requirements are complex and evolving, and many store owners are confused about what they must do to make their sites accessible.
- Pagliaro outlines background on the ADA, how accessibility regulations are interpreted for websites, and why online stores often get targeted with demand letters and lawsuits.
- There is no guaranteed way to prevent getting sued; the focus should be on mitigating risk by implementing accessibility practices, documentation, processes, and using tools (like accessibility apps), though none are a silver bullet.
- Many cases settle before court, but even settlements and legal defense can be costly for small stores.
Practical Takeaways
- Ecommerce site owners should take ADA compliance seriously, proactively prepare for potential claims, and combine accessibility tools with internal policies and ongoing review to reduce legal risk.
Show Links
Transcript & Video
https://jadepuma.com/blogs/the-shopify-solutions-podcast/episode-175-talking-ada-compliance-with-an-attorney
