Howard Cohan, a Florida resident with multiple disabilities, has filed a lawsuit against Emily Management, LLC, which operates as Emily Hotel. The complaint was lodged in the United States District Court for the Central District of Illinois on April 3, 2025. Cohan alleges that the hotel is in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), citing numerous accessibility barriers that he encountered during his visit.
Cohan, who suffers from severe spinal stenosis and other debilitating conditions, visited Emily Hotel on October 12, 2024. During his visit, he discovered several ADA violations that hindered his ability to access and enjoy the hotel's facilities fully. These included improper door pressure exceeding ADA limits, unprotected plumbing under sinks posing injury risks due to his limited hand sensation, improperly placed mirrors inaccessible to wheelchair users, and inadequate urinal stall widths. Cohan also noted issues within the men's restroom near BOU, such as missing stall door handles and improperly spaced grab bars crucial for his stability given his spinal and knee conditions.
Cohan's complaint emphasizes not only his personal grievances but also his role as a "tester" who actively seeks out ADA violations in public accommodations. He argues that these barriers have denied him equal access compared to able-bodied individuals and caused him personal humiliation. Despite being aware of these issues at Emily Hotel, Cohan intends to return once corrective measures are implemented to verify compliance and potentially use the premises like any other patron.
The plaintiff seeks injunctive relief requiring Emily Management to rectify these violations by altering their premises and policies to comply with ADA standards. Additionally, Cohan requests reasonable attorneys' fees and costs associated with the lawsuit. His legal representation is led by Marshall J. Burt of The Burt Law Group Ltd., based in Chicago.
This case is being overseen by Judge [Name], under Case ID: 1:25-cv-03593.