Nursing Home Abuse: Important Questions to Ask Your Attorney

Nursing home abuse is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences for elderly individuals and their families. If you speculate your loved one has been the victim of nursing home abuse, you must seek legal counsel as soon as possible. However, not all nursing home abuse lawyers are created equal, and it is essential to ask the right questions before retaining legal representation.

Is Nursing Home Abuse a Form of Medical Malpractice?

Nursing home abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, neglect, and financial exploitation. It may also be considered medical malpractice in some cases.

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider cannot provide suitable care, harming the patient. For instance, if a nursing home staff member is responsible for the abuse, it may be considered medical malpractice.

Do You Have Experience with Cases Like Mine?

When choosing a nursing home abuse lawyer to represent you in a case, find someone with experience in this law area. Ask the attorney if they have handled cases similar to yours and what the outcome was.

You should also inquire about their success rate in nursing home abuse cases. This way, you can gauge their expertise and track record in handling cases like yours.

What Types of Damages Are Available?

If you or a loved one have been a victim of nursing home abuse, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Damages that may be available in a nursing home abuse case include:

• Medical expenses: This includes any costs associated with treating injuries caused by the abuse, such as hospital bills, doctor visits, and medication.
• Pain and suffering: This refers to the physical and emotional pain caused by the abuse.
• Emotional distress: This includes anxiety, depression, and other emotional issues caused by the abuse.
• Punitive damages: Sometimes, the court may grant punitive damages to punish the nursing home for its actions and deter similar behavior.

What Do You Charge?

It is crucial to comprehend the fee system of a nursing home abuse lawyer before employing their services. Typically, lawyers who deal with such cases are compensated based on contingency fees, implying that they are only paid if the client wins the lawsuit.

The attorney’s fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or verdict in your case. Furthermore, the percentage may vary from lawyer to lawyer, but it usually ranges from 25% to 40%.

What Should I Do after Experiencing Nursing Home Abuse?

If you or a loved one has experienced nursing home abuse, there are several steps you should take:

1. Report it to the nursing home administration immediately. They are required by law to investigate and report any incidents of abuse.
2. Speak with an attorney who has experience in nursing home abuse cases. They can help you recognize your legal rights and options.
3. If possible, take pictures of any injuries or bruises and keep a journal of any incidents of abuse.
4. If you or your family member has been injured due to the abuse, seek medical attention immediately.
5. Always stay involved in your loved one’s care and visit them regularly to monitor their well-being and ensure they receive appropriate care.

Final Thoughts

Remember, nursing home abuse is unacceptable; you don’t have to suffer in silence. Seek legal help today and take the first step towards holding those responsible accountable for their actions.

Circeo Law Firm can provide victims with a reliable nursing home abuse lawyer to help them pursue justice and compensation for their suffering. Our experienced attorneys have a proven track record of successfully representing clients in nursing home abuse cases and fighting for their rights. Consult us today!