Andy Martin, a paraplegic resident of California, has filed a lawsuit against Michelle Macdonald, operating as Shag Shop, for alleged violations of disability access laws. The complaint was filed on April 15, 2025, in the Superior Court of California, County of Ventura. Martin accuses Macdonald and unnamed defendants (Does 1-20) of failing to provide an accessible entrance to their barber shop located at 850 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, CA.
According to the complaint, Andy Martin visited the Shag Shop on January 27, 2025, intending to get a haircut. However, he encountered an architectural barrier at the entrance that prevented him from accessing the facility with his wheelchair. This incident caused him significant difficulty and embarrassment. Martin asserts that the lack of accessibility violates both state and federal laws designed to protect individuals with disabilities. Specifically, he cites violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California's Unruh Civil Rights Act.
Martin's complaint emphasizes that these barriers are easily removable without significant difficulty or expense. He argues that under ADA guidelines, businesses must ensure full and equal access to their facilities for individuals with disabilities. By failing to do so, Shag Shop has allegedly engaged in discriminatory practices against disabled patrons like Martin.
The plaintiff seeks injunctive relief compelling the defendants to comply with the Unruh Civil Rights Act by removing all barriers related to his disability. He also demands damages under this act, which includes actual damages and a statutory minimum penalty of $4,000 per violation. Additionally, Martin requests reasonable attorney’s fees and litigation expenses as part of his relief.
Representing Andy Martin is Dayton Magallanes from the Law Offices of Dayton Magallanes based in Moorpark, CA. The case is presided over by judges at the Superior Court of California in Ventura County under Case No. 2025CUCRO42083.