Nursing Home Abuse / Neglect: What can I do about it?

1. I believe that my relative has been the victim of neglect or abuse. What should I do about it?
Our free pamphlet will help you understand signs and symptoms. From there, the best response will depend on the nature or severity of the problem. If you suspect minor emotional neglect or abuse, contact the nursing home administrator immediately. More serious problems may warrant a call to health or legal authorities. In any case, call us and we’ll recommend your course of action, including whether or not we feel that a lawsuit may be justified.

2. If I want to take legal action, how will the process work?
When our clients first contact us, we gather information about what happened at the nursing home. Then we will usually meet with you to discuss the details. After a thorough review, we share our recommendations with you. In any case, there is no charge for initial consultations and all information is held strictly confidential.

3. What if I can’t get to your office?
No problem. Our lawyers can come to meet with you wherever you are.

4. How will I be charged?
There are two ways that attorneys can charge for their services. One is by the hour. The other, which we use, is by a percentage of the money recovered for our clients. This is known as a “contingency fee.” If for any reason we would not obtain a financial recovery for our client, there would be no charge for our legal services.

5. How much is my case worth?
No two cases are alike. The value depends on many factors like the nature, extent and permanency of injuries, pain and suffering and their effect on the victim’s/family’s ability to enjoy life. To get the information to evaluate each case, we look to the clients, medical providers and other relevant information.

6. Will I have to go to court?
Possibly, but most cases are settled out of court. When we have the information we need, we sit down with you and talk about your case. We make recommendations and determine an appropriate settlement figure. We then present, on your behalf, a detailed settlement demand. As soon as the response is received, we’ll communicate it to you. The decision to accept or reject the offer is yours. If the case can’t be settled, we will file a lawsuit for you. The case can still be settled out of court up to the time of trial but if it isn’t, we are ready to represent you at trial.

7. Who will decide my case?
If your case cannot be settled out of court, it will normally be decided by a jury. Some cases are decided by a Judge.

8. …but the nursing home is owned by a large company with lots of resources?
We have a long and successful history of taking on large companies and their insurance companies. We also have access to a number of experts to help present your case.

9. What should I do if I am contacted by an insurance company?
Before you talk to an insurance company, you should contact us. Oftentimes, statements provided to an insurance company can be used against you and your family in court.