Portland lawyer behind ADA lawsuits under ethics investigation [Video]

PORTLAND, Oregon — The state organization that investigates lawyer misconduct has opened an ethics investigation into the Portland lawyer behind dozens of disability access lawsuits. The Oregon State Bar launched its ethics probe into Jessica Molligan after receiving three separate complaints, according to documents obtained through a public records request.

An ongoing KGW investigation found Molligan sent dozens of demand letters to small businesses in the Portland area, threatening to sue if they didn’t bring their property into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and pay attorney fees of roughly $10,000.

A disproportionate number of the ADA lawsuits — about half — involved Asian owned businesses, according to court records, state filings and interviews.

“We are referring this matter to Disciplinary Counsel for further consideration,” wrote Daniel P. Atkinson, Assistant General …