A central issue is whether required accommodations were provided in accordance with federal law.
According to court filings:
- Requests for reasonable accommodations were denied or limited
- Proceedings continued without accommodations in place
- Additional requests were restricted during ongoing litigation
A separate federal action alleges violations of Title II of the ADA, including discrimination and retaliation by public entities.
In related proceedings, a federal court granted accommodations for remote participation in pretrial matters, reflecting recognition of access needs.
👉 This page will track ADA-related filings, rulings, and broader accessibility implications.
Disabled Father’s Explosive ADA Lawsuit Slams Maryland Court for Systemic Discrimination—Will AG Brown Defend the Indefensible?
Disabled veteran and attorney Jeff Reichert’s federal lawsuit against Maryland’s Anne Arundel County Circuit Court claims discrimination amid a custody battle. He alleges deliberate exclusion based on disability, violating ADA protections. The case highlights systemic issues in family courts, potentially challenging Attorney General Anthony Brown’s commitment to civil rights.
When “Voluntary” Isn’t Voluntary
The case of Reichert v. Hornbeck highlights the complexities of voluntary dismissals within family courts and the impact of access concerns, particularly under the ADA. It questions whether converting a voluntary dismissal to prejudice is warranted without exceptional circumstances. The outcome will influence how Maryland courts address access and procedural safeguards in family litigation.
From Voluntary Dismissal to Permanent Erasure?
Judge Morris is tasked with deciding whether to convert Jeff Reichert’s voluntary dismissal of his emancipation petition into a dismissal with prejudice, which would permanently bar him from re-litigating his parental claims. The outcome will affect future adoption proceedings and raise concerns about procedural fairness and disability access rights in family court.
Five Hearings, No Parent: How Maryland Family Courts Build a Record Without Participation
The Maryland family court system inadequately addresses the needs of disabled parents, exemplified in the case of Jeffrey Reichert. Despite his requests for reasonable accommodations, hearings proceeded without his participation, leading to punitive outcomes. The federal court later confirmed his rights under the ADA, highlighting systemic failures in ensuring equitable access to justice.
Federal Court Grants ADA Access—State Family Court Still Risks Dismissing Disabled Parent’s Case
A federal civil-rights lawsuit filed by Jeffrey Reichert highlights systemic issues in family courts regarding disability rights. Despite a ruling permitting remote participation under the ADA, state proceedings moved forward without him, risking punitive dismissal for non-appearance. The case underscores the need for accessible justice for disabled litigants.
