At Maurer Law, we understand that elder abuse and neglect, while difficult to discuss, are tragic realities that many older adults face. Whether elderly loved ones live in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or are cared for by relatives or professional caregivers, they are an often overlooked vulnerable population that can be subjected to varying forms of mistreatment.
If you’re looking for an “elderly abuse attorney near me,” look no further. At Maurer Law our three offices in Truckee, California, Auburn, California and Nevada City, California are dedicated to helping families fight for the rights of their elderly friends and family and seek justice when abuse or neglect occurs.
Understanding Elderly Abuse Types
Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as neglect and financial exploitation. These kinds of elderly abuses affect millions of seniors across the country, but unfortunately, the crimes are often underreported. Here are some common forms of harm that an elderly abuse attorney at Maurer Law can assist with:
1. Physical Abuse
Physical elder abuse involves the use of force against an elderly person, resulting in harm, injury, or pain. It may include hitting, slapping, shoving, or restraining a senior inappropriately. Unexplained bruises, fractures, or other injuries should be immediate red flags that physical abuse may be occurring. At Maurer Law, we understand how to build a case using medical records, witness testimony, and other evidence to hold abusers accountable for their actions and have done so many times with success.
- Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse involves non-consensual sexual contact with an elderly individual, which can range from unwanted touching to rape. This form of abuse is particularly devastating because victims often feel ashamed or frightened to tell anyone what has happened. At Maurer Law, our compassionate staff works to create a safe and welcoming environment for victims and their families to share their experiences without judgment. We work diligently to seek justice and ensure that the abuser faces the full weight of the law.
3. Emotional and Psychological Abuse
Often, emotional abuse can be more difficult to detect than physical or sexual abuse, but it is equally damaging. It involves verbal assaults, threats, humiliation, and other behaviors that are intended to cause emotional distress or manipulation. Some common signs of emotional abuse include anxiety, depression, fear, withdrawal, or sudden changes in the person’s behavior. Maurer Law attorneys can assist clients in learning how to identify the signs of emotional abuse and can help victims seek compensation for the emotional trauma they have endured.
Steps to Take If You Suspect Elder Abuse or Neglect
If you suspect that an elderly loved one is suffering from neglect or any of the elderly abuse types, it is crucial to act quickly. Here are steps to take if you believe abuse is happening:
- Document the Signs – Take photos of any physical injuries, make notes or record of conversations, and keep a record of unusual behavior or any suspicious actions from caregivers or facility staff.
- Report the Abuse – Elder abuse should be reported to the appropriate authorities, such as Adult Protective Services (APS) in California or local law enforcement. Filing a report as soon as possible can help initiate an investigation and protect the victim from further harm.
- Seek Legal Help from an Elderly Abuse Attorney – Contacting a law firm like Maurer Law is another important step in holding abusers accountable. Our legal team will investigate the situation thoroughly, collect evidence, and guide you through the entire legal process. We can help you file a civil lawsuit to seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and any additional losses caused by the abuse or neglect.
- Ensure the Safety of the Elderly Individual – If the abuse is occurring in a care facility, remove the elderly person from that environment immediately to prevent further harm, and seek immediate medical care if needed.
How Maurer Law Can Help Stand Against Elder Abuse
At Maurer Law, we are passionate about protecting the rights of vulnerable populations in our community, including seniors. Our experienced elderly abuse attorneys have an extensive understanding of California’s elder abuse laws and are dedicated to advocating for justice on behalf of those who have suffered abuse or neglect. When you seek our assistance, we work closely with medical experts, elder care professionals, and investigators to build the strongest case possible.
If you believe an elderly loved one is the victim of abuse or neglect, don’t wait to seek help. Maurer Law is here to provide compassionate legal representation, so that your family’s voice is heard and that those responsible are held accountable. Contact us today by calling (530) 745-6861 or emailing info@maurer.law for a free consultation in one of our three offices in Northern California. We look forward to talking with you and helping you protect your loved one’s rights and well-being.
