Receiving a digital accessibility demand letter is stressful, but the next 72 hours largely determine your settlement exposure. Here's exactly what to do — and what not to do.
The 7-step response framework
Follow this sequence in order. Skip none.
- 1. DO NOT reply directly. Forward to counsel.
- 2. Preserve your current site state (screenshots, full HTML snapshot).
- 3. Commission an immediate third-party WCAG audit (this is where AxessGuard helps).
- 4. Begin a dated remediation log within 7 days.
- 5. Publish or update an accessibility statement.
- 6. Have counsel respond with audit + roadmap attached.
- 7. Negotiate scope, not whether you'll comply.
Why an audit PDF defuses pressure
Plaintiff firms make money on volume. A documented audit + remediation plan signals you're a hard target. Most letters either get withdrawn or settle far lower when you respond with evidence.
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It's bundled free with the Path to Compliance and Multi-Site plans.