A visually-impaired individual has filed a class action lawsuit against a jewelry company, alleging that its website is inaccessible to blind and visually-impaired consumers. Erika Alexandria filed the complaint in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on November 26, 2025, targeting Jill Platner, Inc.
The lawsuit claims that Jill Platner, Inc. has failed to design and maintain its website, www.jillplatner.com, in a manner that allows it to be fully accessible to visually-impaired individuals who rely on screen-reading software. According to Alexandria, this failure constitutes a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as well as New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL). The plaintiff argues that by not providing equal access to their online goods and services, Jill Platner, Inc. is engaging in discriminatory practices against individuals with disabilities.
Alexandria recounts her experience attempting to purchase a pair of earrings called “Poppy Studs with Diamonds” from the defendant’s website on June 12, 2025. She describes encountering numerous barriers that prevented her from completing the transaction independently. These barriers included missing alternative text for images, improperly defined heading hierarchies, and interactive elements not compatible with screen-reader technology. As a result of these issues, Alexandria was unable to navigate or interact with the website effectively.
The complaint highlights the broader implications of web accessibility for blind and visually-impaired users. It notes that while screen-reading software can enable these individuals to access digital content, websites must be designed according to established guidelines like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 to ensure compatibility. Alexandria asserts that Jill Platner’s failure to adhere to these standards represents intentional discrimination.
In seeking relief from the court, Alexandria requests a permanent injunction requiring Jill Platner, Inc. to make its website accessible by hiring an expert consultant and implementing changes consistent with WCAG 2.1 guidelines. Additionally, she seeks compensatory damages for herself and other affected individuals under NYCHRL provisions.
Representing Alexandria is attorney Rami Salim from Stein Saks PLLC based in Hackensack, New Jersey. The case is assigned Case No.: 25-9858 in front of judges at the Southern District of New York Court.
Source: 125cv09858_Erika_Alexandria_v_Jill_Platner_Complaint_Southern_District_of_New_York.pdf
