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WCAG 2.0 Question: Converting Form to Static Version

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From: Mike -
Date: Feb 27, 2014 6:33PM

Hello,

We would like to convert a PDF form into a static XHTML document. Part of the PDF has fillable checkboxes. In order for the XHTML document to satisfy WCAG 2.0, can decorative images be used to represent the checkboxes?

I am referring to the approach at: http://jsfiddle.net/WLQqf/. In the example, the items are presented as an unordered list. CSS is used to change the default properties of the list; namely a checkbox image (with null alt text) replaces the standard bullets.

While a static XHTML form will never be equal to a fillable PDF from a usability standpoint, does presenting the checkboxes in this fashion satisfy WCAG 2.0 (AA)? Or does a static version of virtually any form rule out the possibility of it being compliant?

Form fields often have intricate relationships with their surrounding text, and have to be given names, roles, labels, etc. so that screen readers can correctly associate those connections.

Thanks