accessibility of the disabled attribute in forms

[wbtenor]

In a form, the disabled attribute is easily enabled through javascript. But what if a user doesn't have javascript? My thoughts were:

1.) write the disabled="disabled" attribute with javascript. If javascript is not available, then there won't be any fields unavailable.
2.) use server-side scripting (in my case, PHP) to go back to that disabled field when the form is submitted and enable it

What is the accepted technique from a usability and accessibility standpoint?

[AutisticCuckoo]

I'd say it depends on the form. I suspect most forms would benefit from option #1, but if the form logic is complicated there will be a need for heavy validation server-side and you'll have to find a user-friendly way to present error messages etc.

Option #2 may be useful for certain forms, but it will be awkward for dial-up users and you need to explain the process thoroughly for users with screen readers etc, so that they'll know why the form reloads.