Legal requirements

Accessibility laws protect disabled people's rights to access digital products and services. In the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to websites and apps, though it doesn't specify technical standards. Courts typically reference WCAG 2.1 Level AA as the benchmark. Similar laws exist globally: the European Accessibility Act covers EU member states, while the UK has the Equality Act and Public Sector Bodies Accessibility Regulations.

Legal requirements vary by organization type and location. Public sector organizations usually face stricter mandates than private companies, though this is changing. Some industries like banking, healthcare, and education have specific accessibility requirements. Companies operating internationally must comply with multiple regulatory frameworks. Non-compliance can result in lawsuits, financial penalties, and reputational damage beyond just monetary costs.

Legal requirements change and evolve as technology advances and case law develops. Staying informed about regulations in your target markets protects your organization while ensuring your product serves all users effectively. Regular accessibility audits help maintain compliance and identify improvement opportunities before issues become legal risks.