Philadelphia Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

The decision to place a loved one in a nursing home is never easy. It comes with a mix of emotions, from relief that they will receive the care they need to anxiety about whether they will be treated with the respect and compassion they deserve.

Unfortunately, not all nursing homes meet the high standards we expect for our loved ones, leading to a distressing reality that many families are forced to face. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), as many as 2 out of 3 nursing homes and long-term care facility staff admit that they’ve committed some form of elder abuse in the previous 12 months.

When it happens, it’s crucial to have a dedicated Philadelphia nursing home abuse lawyer by your side.

That’s where the experienced professionals at Laffey Bucci D’Andrea Reich & Ryan can help.

What Is Nursing Home Abuse?

Nursing home abuse can take many forms, ranging from physical and emotional abuse to neglect and financial exploitation. It’s important to be able to recognize the signs of abuse and understand the steps you should take if you suspect your loved one is being mistreated.

Types of Nursing Home Abuse

• Physical Abuse: This includes hitting, pushing, or other forms of physical harm. Signs may include unexplained bruises, fractures, or injuries.
• Emotional Abuse: Verbal assaults, threats, or harassment that cause emotional distress. Indicators can be sudden changes in behavior, depression, or withdrawal.
• Neglect: Failure to provide basic needs such as food, water, medical care, or personal hygiene. Look for signs like bedsores, weight loss, or poor hygiene. Studies have suggested that up to 38% of residents have experienced dehydration at some point.
• Financial Exploitation: Unauthorized use of a resident’s funds or property is also not uncommon. The National Council on Aging reports that “the annual loss by victims of financial abuse is estimated to be at least $36.5 billion.” Watch for sudden financial changes, missing belongings, or unexplained withdrawals.
• Sexual Abuse: Any non-consensual sexual contact. Signs can include bruising in genital areas, sexually transmitted infections, or emotional trauma. In situations of nursing home sexual abuse, the victim might not be able to communicate the abuse or fear doing so.

Steps To Take if You Suspect a Loved One Is Being Abused

If you suspect that your loved one is being abused in a nursing home, it’s essential to take immediate action. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of any signs of abuse or neglect, including dates, times, and descriptions of incidents. Take photographs of any physical injuries or conditions that indicate neglect.
2. Report the Abuse: Report your concerns to the nursing home administration. They are required by law to investigate and address any reports of abuse. Additionally, you can report the abuse to state agencies, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Aging.
3. Seek Medical Attention: Ensure that your loved one receives immediate medical attention for any injuries or health issues. Medical records will be critical evidence in proving abuse or neglect.
4. Contact a Nursing Home Abuse Attorney: Consult with a Philadelphia nursing home abuse lawyer as soon as possible. They will guide you through the legal process, help you understand your options, and work to ensure that your loved one receives the care and justice they deserve.

Why You Need a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer To Help You

When you suspect a loved one is being abused, it’s crucial to act quickly; Pennsylvania typically has a 2-year statute of limitations on these types of cases. A specialized attorney can help navigate the complex legal landscape, ensuring that your loved one’s rights are protected and that justice is served.

Expertise in Elder Law

A nursing home abuse lawyer specializes in elder law and understands the specific state and Federal regulations and standards that residential facilities must adhere to. This expertise is vital in building a strong case against the abusers and the institution responsible.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Proving nursing home abuse requires thorough investigation and evidence gathering. An experienced attorney has the resources and experience to collect medical records, witness statements, and other crucial evidence to support your case.

Legal Representation

Having a lawyer in your corner means you have someone to represent you in court or negotiations with the assisted living facility’s legal team. This can significantly improve the chances of a favorable outcome, whether it’s a settlement or a court verdict.

Choosing the Right Lawyer

Selecting the right lawyer is crucial for success. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a nursing home abuse lawyer in Philadelphia:

• Experience and Expertise: Look for a lawyer or legal team with extensive experience in nursing home abuse cases and a deep understanding of elder law. They should have a proven track record of successful outcomes in similar cases.
• Compassion and Understanding: Dealing with this type of abuse is emotionally taxing. Your lawyer should not only be skilled but also compassionate and understanding of your situation. They should be someone you feel comfortable talking to and who genuinely cares about your loved one’s well-being.
• Resources and Support: Choose a lawyer with the resources to thoroughly investigate and build a strong case. This includes access to medical experts, investigators, and a supportive legal team.
• Reputation: Research the lawyer’s reputation by reading reviews and testimonials from previous clients. A lawyer with a strong reputation for fighting nursing home abuse and achieving justice for their clients is more likely to be a reliable advocate for your case.

The Legal Process

Understanding the legal process can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty associated with pursuing an abuse case.

Initial Consultation

Your first step is an initial consultation with the lawyer. During this meeting, you’ll discuss your concerns and provide any documentation or evidence you have, and the lawyer will explain your legal options.

Investigation

The lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with medical experts to build a strong case.

Filing a Lawsuit

If there is sufficient evidence of abuse, the lawyer will file a lawsuit against the responsible parties. This could include the nursing home, staff members, or other involved parties.

Negotiation and Settlement

In many cases, the long-term care facility may offer a settlement to avoid a lengthy court battle. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to ensure any settlement is fair and just.

Trial

If a settlement cannot be reached, the case will go to trial. Your lawyer will represent you in court, presenting the evidence and advocating for your loved one’s rights.

Abuse is a grave issue that affects vulnerable individuals who deserve our utmost care and respect.

If you suspect that a loved one is being abused in an assisted living facility in PA, it’s essential to act quickly and seek the help of a dedicated Philadelphia nursing home abuse lawyer. With our expertise, resources, and compassion, we can help ensure that your loved one receives justice and that those responsible are held accountable.

Protecting our elderly population is a responsibility we all share, and having a skilled attorney by your side is a crucial step in fulfilling that duty.

Contact us today at Laffey Bucci D’Andrea Reich & Ryan to learn more about your rights.