Legal Steps to Take After Nursing Home Abuse

Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

There are several reasons a person may choose to place their aging loved one in a nursing home; a nursing home abuse lawyer knows there may be few other options, especially when a person requires additional care. The safety and well-being of an aging loved one should be a top priority, and while many nursing homes provide exceptional care, some do not, and abuse or neglect may follow. Instances of nursing home abuse can shatter this trust, leaving families devastated and seeking justice for their loved ones. When faced with nursing home abuse, Glotzer & Leib, LLP stresses the importance of understanding the legal steps that should be taken to hold responsible parties accountable and provide the victims with the protection they deserve.

Documentation and Evidence Gathering

The first crucial step in pursuing legal action after nursing home abuse is to gather as much evidence and documentation as possible. Several vital documents that may serve as solid evidence for moving forward include:

• Medical Records

• Photographs of Injuries

• Victim's Personal Statements

• Eyewitness Statements

• Police Reports

• +More

Additionally, it is crucial to document any changes in the resident's behavior or physical condition. This evidence will serve as the foundation for building a solid case.

Reporting the Abuse

Once the evidence has been gathered, reporting the abuse to the appropriate authorities is imperative. This typically involves contacting local law enforcement, adult protective services, and the state regulatory agency responsible for nursing homes. These agencies will conduct investigations to determine the extent of the abuse and take appropriate action.

III. Seeking Legal Representation

Engaging the services of a lawyer with experience in representing nursing home abuse victims is crucial to receiving the support and protection they are entitled to. They will guide you through the legal process, protecting your rights and advocating on your behalf. They will help assess the strength of your case, navigate complex legal procedures, and pursue compensation for the damages suffered.

Filing a Lawsuit

If the evidence and circumstances warrant it, filing a lawsuit against the nursing home and the individuals responsible may be appropriate. A lawsuit seeks to hold the facility accountable for negligence, abuse, or other wrongful acts. A lawyer can assist in preparing and filing the lawsuit, outlining the damages sought, and compellingly presenting the evidence.

Settlement or Trial

Once a lawsuit is filed, the legal process may progress through settlement negotiations or trial. Sometimes, the defendant may be willing to reach a settlement to avoid a lengthy and costly trial. Settlements can provide financial compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to trial, where evidence will be presented, and a judge or jury will make a final determination.

Nursing home abuse is a distressing and unacceptable violation of trust. When such abuse occurs, it is crucial to take legal action to protect the rights of the victim and hold those responsible accountable. By gathering evidence, reporting the abuse, seeking legal representation, and potentially filing a lawsuit, families can pursue justice and ensure that nursing homes are held to the highest standards of care.