Elder Abuse Attorney in San Francisco
No win, no fee: You pay no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Elder abuse is wrong, and it’s happening far too often in the Bay Area. Vulnerable members of our community are being exploited by the very people supposed to protect them.
It has to stop.
An elder abuse attorney in San Francisco can hold those responsible accountable. Plain and simple.
Understanding Elder Abuse
Elder abuse takes many forms, and it doesn’t always leave physical scars.
It can be carried out by caregivers, nursing home staff, family members, or even strangers.
What’s devastating is that victims often lack the physical strength or mental capacity to defend themselves. No one should have to face such cruelty alone.
If a loved one is at risk, an elder abuse attorney in San Francisco can stand in their corner.
Over 10 percent of adults 65 and older experience elder abuse every year, according to the Department of Justice.
Types of Elder Abuse
There are five main forms of elder abuse. Each one is unacceptable.
1. Physical abuse
This includes any act that causes bodily harm, pain, or injury:
- Hitting, pushing, or otherwise using force
- Failing to provide medical care
- Administering medications improperly
2. Psychological abuse
Not all elder abuse is physical. It can also include:
- Verbal threats
- Humiliation
- Intimidation or coercion
- Isolation from family and friends
3. Neglect and abandonment
This happens when someone’s basic needs are ignored or unmet. Examples include:
- Lack of food or water
- Leaving someone in an unsafe environment
- Ignoring personal care needs
4. Sexual abuse
Sexual abuse is any non-consensual sexual act.
5. Financial exploitation
Examples include:
- Telephone or internet scams targeting older adults
- Fraudulent investment schemes
- Pressure to change a will or other financial documents
What California Law Says About Elder Abuse
California’s Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act protects the most vulnerable in our society.
It applies to two groups:
- Elders: Those aged 65 or older
- Dependent adults: Those aged 18-64 who have physical or mental limitations that make it hard to protect themselves
The law is crystal clear.
Anyone who hurts or exploits an older/dependent adult can face serious consequences. Families and legal representatives have the power to step in and pursue compensation for the harm suffered.
What Compensation Is Available for Elder Abuse in California?
California elder abuse claims can extend beyond personal injury protections, allowing families of victims to seek damages even without a physical injury.
Here’s what compensation may be available:
- Medical expenses (costs for injuries caused by abuse or neglect)
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Lost money or assets (funds or property stolen or misused)
- Punitive damages (compensation awarded by the court in certain cases to punish a wrongdoer)
An elder abuse attorney in San Francisco can calculate recoverable damages and help you file a claim.
Wrongful Death from Elder Abuse
In the tragic event that elder abuse results in death, you may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. Compensation could cover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and other damages.
What To Do if You Suspect Elder Abuse
If you believe an older adult is being abused or neglected, we recommend the following:
Look for signs of abuse
Pay close attention to unexplained injuries or any changes in their behavior. An abuse victim might appear withdrawn or anxious around certain individuals. However, this isn’t always the case, so try not to jump to any conclusions.
Document everything as best you can
Keep a record of anything that might serve as evidence. Take photos of any injuries (if it’s safe to do so) and note down details that seem suspicious. Save bank statements and other documents that suggest financial exploitation.
Make sure they’re safe
Your number one priority is protecting your loved one from further harm. If they’re in immediate danger, call 911 immediately.
Report concerns to the authorities
Contact Adult Protective Services (415-355-6700) as soon as possible, and tell them everything.
Get elder abuse legal help in San Francisco
Reach out to an attorney to learn how you can file a claim for elder abuse. Stoll & Haynes offers free consultations, so you can discuss your legal options at no cost.
Why Claims Require an Elder Abuse Lawyer
Fighting an elder abuse claim alone is often complicated and stressful. Your loved one may struggle to communicate what happened, and abusers may try to conceal what they’ve done. This could make it difficult to collect evidence.
An experienced San Francisco elder abuse lawyer can:
- Investigate suspected abuse on your behalf
- Examine medical records and financial documents
- Interview any witnesses
- Work with experts
- Negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurance company
Attorneys at Stoll & Haynes understand the severity of elder abuse and how it impacts both victims and their families. That’s why we handle every claim with care and compassion. Together, we can seek justice for the person you love.
Elder Abuse Attorney in San Francisco FAQs
Elder abuse is any intentional or negligent act that hurts or exploits an older adult. It can include physical abuse, psychological abuse, neglect, abandonment, sexual abuse, and financial exploitation.
An elder abuse attorney in San Francisco can pursue compensation for harm your loved one has suffered. Compensation may include medical expenses, emotional trauma, and lost money or assets.
Choose a law firm that has a proven track record of handling elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The right team can protect your loved one’s legal rights and fight for justice.
Yes, California law allows families and legal representatives to seek damages, even if no physical injuries are apparent. Contact a San Francisco elder abuse lawyer to learn more.
Talk to an Elder Abuse Attorney in San Francisco Today
Nobody deserves to suffer in silence, especially those who rely on others for care and protection. If you think that someone you love is the victim of elder abuse, don’t wait. Contact the authorities and then get in touch with our attorney team in San Francisco to discuss your next steps.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you need advice about your specific situation, please contact Stoll & Haynes directly.