What to Ask a Lawyer about a Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuit
Abuse in nursing homes is a severe problem that impacts numerous families all throughout the country. It might be upsetting to believe that your loved one has been abused or ignored in a nursing home.
Holding the nursing home responsible for their conduct and ensuring that their loved one receives the recompense and justice they deserve may be possible through the filing of a lawsuit.
However, this process can be complex and overwhelming, and it is crucial to have a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer on your side.
Below are some questions you should ask a lawyer about a nursing home abuse lawsuit to help you navigate the legal process.
What Is Nursing Home Abuse?
Understanding what constitutes nursing home abuse is crucial before bringing a claim for wrongdoing. Abuse in nursing homes can take many shapes, including bodily harm, psychological harm, sexual harm, financial harm, and neglect.
Physical abuse can include hitting, slapping, or restraining a resident, while emotional abuse can involve verbal or psychological mistreatment.
Sexual abuse can include any unwanted sexual contact or advances, while financial abuse can involve stealing money or valuables from a resident.
Neglect can involve failing to provide adequate food, water, medication, or hygiene.
What Are the Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?
Nursing home abuse can be difficult to notice since many patients may be reluctant to speak up or may not be able to express their experiences.
Unexpected wounds, bruises, or cuts, abrupt changes in behavior or mood, weight loss, starvation, dehydration, bedsores, and poor hygiene are all indications of nursing home abuse.
If you notice any of these signs, it is essential to investigate further and seek legal assistance.
How Can a Lawyer Help with a Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuit?
In a case alleging nursing home mistreatment, a lawyer might be quite important. They can aid in the collection of proof, the filing of paperwork, and negotiations with the nursing home or their insurance provider.
They can also represent you in court and help you understand your legal rights and options. A lawyer can also provide emotional support and guidance throughout the process.
What Losses Can Be Reclaimed in a Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuit?
If you prevail in a case alleging nursing home abuse, you can be entitled to financial compensation for your suffering, medical costs, mental distress, and punitive damages.
Medical expenses can cover any costs related to treating injuries brought on by abuse or neglect, and pain and suffering damages can cover the resident’s physical and mental anguish.
Emotional distress damages can compensate for the psychological effects of the abuse, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Punitive damages can be awarded if the nursing home’s actions were particularly egregious or malicious.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuit?
State-by-state, the statute of limitations for bringing a case alleging nursing home abuse normally ranges between one and three years. It is essential to act quickly if you suspect abuse or neglect, as waiting too long to file a lawsuit can result in your case being dismissed.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Lawyer for a Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuit?
Many lawyers who handle nursing home abuse cases work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case.
The lawyer’s fee is typically a percentage of the amount you recover in damages, usually between 33 percent and 40 percent. This arrangement can be beneficial for those who cannot afford to pay upfront legal fees.
Conclusion
Filing a nursing home abuse lawsuit can be a difficult decision, but it is important to hold negligent or abusive nursing homes accountable for their actions. You can better understand the legal process and increase your chances of success by working with a qualified and experienced attorney.
You may make sure that your loved one receives the compensation and justice they are due by being informed of your legal options and by asking the proper questions.
Get justice for nursing home abuse with a skilled nursing home abuse lawyer from Bossie, Reilly, & Oh. Our firm is dedicated to holding nursing homes, hospitals, group homes, and assisted living facilities accountable for the abuse and neglect of elders and vulnerable adults.
We fight for your rights and ensure justice is served—with hundreds of elder abuse and neglect cases litigated and many six- and seven-figure settlements and verdicts recovered for our clients. Contact us today to learn more.