Accomplished California Law Firm Aids Victims of Nursing Home Abuse
San Diego attorney aggressively litigates abuse and neglect claims
Hundreds of thousands of people live in nursing homes and residential care facilities in the state. Unfortunately, many of these skilled nursing facilities provide a poor quality of care, according to the Office of the California Attorney General. At Chivinski Law Firm, APC, I am dedicated to taking effective legal action against nursing homes and their staff who abuse and neglect elderly and vulnerable individuals in their care, many of whom cannot speak for themselves. I have nearly 20 years of legal experience advocating for the rights and interests of clients in San Diego and throughout Southern California.
Signs of nursing home abuse and neglect
Nursing home abuse can be physical and include striking, pushing or restraining someone against their will. Misconduct in care facilities might also be mental and involve behaviors such as shaming, making threats and yelling at residents. Neglect of a person’s basic needs is also a form of abuse that could result in serious injuries and illnesses. Some of the common signs of nursing home abuse include:
- Bedsores
- Dehydration and malnutrition
- Unexplained bumps, bruises, cuts and other injuries
- Falls resulting in fractures and other injuries
- Poor personal hygiene
- Dirty bedding and surroundings
- Anxiety and fear
- Depression, withdrawal and confusion
If you notice these possible signs of elder abuse and neglect in your loved one, I can help investigate whether abuse may be the issue.
What to do if you suspect abuse
If you suspect abuse, talk to the potential victim if they are communicative. Spend as much time as you can at the facility and ask other family members to do the same. Drop in at random times of the day so staff does not know when to expect you. Observe the way different staff members treat your family member. You can report abuse or suspected abuse to the nursing home ombudsman and/or California Adult Protective Services (CAPS). In emergency situations, call 911. I can assist you in abuse reporting and advise you about holding abusers financially liable through a lawsuit.
Accountability for nursing home abuse
Depending on the circumstances, the state might file criminal charges against an abusive individual or facility, but abuse victim or their power of attorney or legal guardian can take direct action by filing a civil lawsuit seeking compensation for the harm they endured. Damages in a civil lawsuit may include compensation for medical expenses for the injuries, pain and suffering and other costs incurred because of the abuse or neglect. You generally have two years from the date the incident occurred to file a personal injury claim, but an abuse lawsuit might be based on an ongoing pattern of misconduct. I can counsel you about specific timelines based on your situation and file the suit on your behalf or that of your family member.
Contact an experienced nursing home abuse lawyer for assistance
Chivinski Law Firm, APC, in San Diego pursues compensation for individuals who have been subjected to abuse and neglect in Southern California nursing homes. Call my firm at 619-403-9935 or contact me online to schedule a free consultation.
