Dr. Sharisse Stephenson, a neurologist residing in Dallas, Texas, has filed a lawsuit against Deputy Commissioner Lee Wilder and the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission (VWCC) in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas. The case, registered under Civil Action No. 3:25-cv-02906-K-BT, alleges violations of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and 42 U.S.C. § 1983.
Dr. Stephenson claims that the VWCC denied her reasonable accommodations necessary for her to safely participate in workers’ compensation proceedings related to a psychological injury she sustained while working in Virginia. Despite medical evidence supporting her condition of PTSD, Deputy Commissioner Wilder allegedly insisted on an in-person hearing, citing credibility concerns, which Dr. Stephenson argues is unsafe and discriminatory.
The complaint seeks declaratory and injunctive relief to ensure ADA-compliant access to legal proceedings without retraumatization. Dr. Stephenson emphasizes that this action does not seek monetary damages but aims to secure fair participation rights for individuals with disabilities within judicial processes.
Source: 325cv02906_Sharisse_Stephenson_v_Deputy_Commissioner_Complaint_Northern_District_of_Texas.pdf
