Many attorneys are familiar with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)(42 USC § 12131, et seq.) and the Rehabilitation Act (29 USC § 794), two statutes that prohibit discrimination against individuals based on disability. These laws protect all people with disabilities in the United States.

In comparison to the general population, individuals with disabilities are at greater risk of abuse and tend to be abused more frequently and for longer periods of time. Additionally, individuals with disabilities are less likely to have access to the justice system. People with disabilities are entitled to care and protection, whether their disability is physical, mental or developmental.