"Vexatious litigants"
KXTV News (Sacramento):
The Americans with Disabilities Act has opened countless doors to those with disabilities. But the ADA has also opened doors to abuse.Ron Wilson and Byron Chapman ... claim to be disability rights activists. But critics say the pair seem more interested in helping themselves.
Wilson and Chapman together have filed more than 100 ADA lawsuits in Sacramento federal court in just the past four years. In some cases, the lawsuits come without warning.
"Matter of fact they never even talked to us prior to filing suit," says Bud Fanning, owner of Bud's Pub & Grill in downtown Dixon. Fanning was sued in federal court by Byron Chapman because the step from the sidewalk into the restaurant was two-and-a-half inches too high. "I paid $10,000 to settle plus I still owe $20,000 to my lawyer," Fanning told News10.
Reportedly, Mr. Wilson offers "consulting" ... at $75 an hour. "You pay him $75 an hour as a consultant and you won't necessarily face him in court," according to a local businessman.
(Thanks to Overlawyered).