Morris and Associates - San Diego Elder Abuse Attorneys Answering Common Questions

When people discover that a loved one is being mistreated in an assisted living facility or by a private caregiver, they are often overcome with strong emotions that include worry, anxiety or even anger.  These are common responses to this extremely difficult situation, and when they seek the help of San Diego elder abuse attorneys they often have questions that are common in nature.  Below you'll find a few examples of these common questions, and if you suspect that a loved one is suffering from this conduct, you should also seek the help of San Diego elder abuse lawyers as soon as possible.

Is elder abuse a crime?

The short answer to this common question is that yes, elder abuse is considered a crime in many situations.  Assault and battery are considered criminal acts as is embezzlement, and the fact that these crimes are being committed during the course of providing care to someone does not change that fact.

Can the assisted living center be held responsible for elder abuse or neglect?

Yes, the assisted living center is generally responsible for the conduct of its employees and for the conditions that exist on the site.  The assisted living center can be held responsible by way of a successful verdict from a California personal injury lawsuit and/or by way of penalties that are levied by the State of California if it investigates a problem that is reported and finds wrongdoing on the part of that facility.

Should we call the police or San Diego elder abuse attorneys if abuse is occurring?

That depends on the specifics of the situation.  If you believe that abuse is either occurring at that moment or that it's about to occur, you should contact the police and report it.  If you believe that this conduct is ongoing, you should also contact experienced San Diego elder abuse attorneys who can help you contact the proper authorities and put a stop to the conduct that's occurring.

How will we pay for finding and moving into another facility?

Many families are concerned with their ability to afford a sudden move for their loved one from one facility to another, as this can be an extremely expensive process.  However, if abuse or neglect is occurring and the assisted living center if found liable for this type of harm, the costs of moving to that new facility can be recaptured in the form of damages.

Discovering that a relative or loved one is being abused or neglected is always an extremely difficult situation to encounter.  What anyone in this position should remember is that time is of the essence in these situations, and people who are under threat need help immediately.  If you have made this discovery or you merely suspect that abuse and/or neglect is occurring, contact the San Diego elder abuse attorneys at Morris and Associates immediately to schedule a free initial consultation.