Monica Morrison has filed a lawsuit against a Florida restaurant, alleging discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Florida Civil Rights Act (FRCA). The complaint was lodged in the Circuit Court of Palm Beach County on January 25, 2025, targeting Caffe Luna Rosa, Inc., a Delray Beach-based establishment. Morrison claims she was denied access to the restaurant's restroom due to her service dog, Copper.
The case centers around an incident that occurred on January 26, 2024. Monica Morrison, who relies on her service dog for medical alerts related to diabetes and other health conditions, visited Caffe Luna Rosa with her friend Robin. Seated outside initially, Morrison attempted to enter the restaurant to use the restroom with Copper. However, she was stopped by a waitress named Diana who informed her that no animals were allowed inside. Despite explaining that Copper was a service dog and showing an ADA laws card, Morrison was denied entry by both the waitress and the manager identified as Eric.
Morrison's complaint highlights violations of Title III of the ADA which mandates that service animals be allowed in public accommodations like restaurants. She argues that Caffe Luna Rosa's actions were discriminatory and contrary to federal law which defines service animals as dogs trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, Morrison points out that Florida Statute section 413.08(3) similarly protects her right to be accompanied by a service animal in public spaces.
Seeking justice through legal channels, Monica Morrison demands compensatory damages for emotional distress and inconvenience caused by this incident. Her lawsuit requests declaratory judgments affirming violations of both ADA and FRCA laws by Caffe Luna Rosa. Furthermore, she seeks coverage for attorney’s fees and costs incurred during this legal pursuit.
Representing Monica Morrison are attorneys Byron Acosta and Danay Hernandez from Acosta Hernandez PLLC based in Lake Worth, Florida. The Case ID is: 502025CA000680XXXAMB.