When you entrust the care of an aging loved one to a nursing home, you expect them to be treated with respect, compassion, and the highest level of care. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse and neglect occur far too often, leading to physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial exploitation of vulnerable residents. If your family is facing the heartbreaking reality of nursing home abuse in Baltimore, Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., is here to help.
Our experienced nursing home abuse lawyers are dedicated to protecting the rights of residents and seeking justice for families. We understand the emotional toll this situation can take, and we are committed to holding negligent nursing homes accountable. Contact us today to explore your legal options.
Why Choose a Baltimore Nursing Home Abuse Attorney?
At Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., we advocate for nursing home residents in Baltimore and throughout Maryland who have suffered due to negligence or misconduct. Common examples of abuse and neglect we handle include:
- Malnutrition and dehydration
- Bedsores or decubitus ulcers
- Physical and emotional abuse from staff or other residents
- Sexual assault or unwanted advances
- Medication errors
- Falls or injuries caused by lack of supervision
- Unsanitary living conditions
- Financial exploitation
Our team is skilled at investigating these cases, uncovering the truth, and building a strong claim to pursue justice for your loved one. We know how to spot red flags, such as poor hygiene, understaffing, or unexplained injuries, that indicate nursing home neglect.
The Role of a Baltimore Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
A skilled attorney will take the burden off your shoulders by investigating abuse allegations, gathering evidence, and building a compelling case against negligent facilities. This includes working with medical experts who can identify deviations from accepted care standards.
How SBWD Advocates for Victims and Families
At Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., our attorneys combine legal expertise with compassion. We understand that no two cases are the same, and we approach each situation with the care and attention it deserves. From documenting signs of abuse to fighting for fair compensation, we are advocates for your loved one’s well-being.
What is the Difference Between Negligence and Neglect in Nursing?
Understanding the distinction between negligence and neglect is key to identifying potential abuse in a nursing home.
Negligence refers to failures in providing the expected standard of care, such as improper training or medical errors.
Neglect is the willful disregard for a resident’s needs, leading to harm from lack of basic care, such as hygiene or nutrition.
Both negligence and neglect can have devastating consequences for nursing home residents, including physical injuries, emotional trauma, and diminished quality of life.
Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Abuse and neglect can sometimes be subtle, but there are signs that families should be aware of to protect their loved ones. Signs to look for:
- Physical Abuse and Injuries: Unexplained bruises or fractures, frequent falls or trips, scarring from restraint use.
- Emotional or Psychological Abuse: Fearful behavior around staff, depression or mood swings, social withdrawal.
- Neglect of Basic Needs: Malnutrition or dehydration, poor hygiene or unclean bedding, untreated medical conditions.
- Financial Exploitation: Sudden changes in wills or bank accounts, or unauthorized charges.
- Bedsores and Poor Hygiene: Recurring pressure ulcers, overall lack of cleanliness.
Types of Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home abuse can take many forms, often involving negligence or deliberate mistreatment, including:
- Physical Abuse: Inflicting harm or using unnecessary restraint.
- Neglect and Dehydration: Failing to provide basic care, such as meals or hydration.
- Financial Exploitation: Misusing or stealing a resident’s assets.
- Emotional or Verbal Abuse: Using threats or degrading language.
- Medical Malpractice in Nursing Homes: Administering incorrect medications or ignoring medical needs.
Nursing Home Abuse/Neglect Cases We Handle in Baltimore
At Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., we represent families dealing with all types of nursing home misconduct. Our attorneys take a meticulous approach to investigating and proving these claims, working alongside healthcare professionals, witnesses, and families to get to the truth.
How to Pursue a Nursing Home Abuse Case in Baltimore
Filing a nursing home abuse claim involves several critical steps.
- Investigating Abuse Allegations: Our team begins by exploring reports of abuse, inspecting medical records and facility complaints to uncover negligence.
- Gathering Evidence to Prove Negligence: We work with experts to document injuries, care failures, and facility standards.
- Filing a Lawsuit Against Negligent Facilities: If necessary, we will file a legal claim against the responsible parties.
- Working Toward a Fair Settlement or Trial: We aim to resolve cases swiftly but are prepared to go to trial for justice.
Legal Considerations for Nursing Home Abuse Cases in Baltimore
- Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim
Maryland imposes strict deadlines on nursing home abuse claims. Acting quickly is essential to preserving evidence and filing within the required timeframe. Usually there is a three year window to file a claim in Maryland.
- Proving Liability in Nursing Home Abuse Cases
Demonstrating that the nursing home breached its duty of care is vital to building a successful case. This involves establishing that the nursing home had a responsibility to provide a certain standard of care, that they failed to meet that standard, and that this failure directly caused harm to the resident.
Here's a breakdown of what's often involved:
- Duty of Care: Nursing homes have a legal and ethical obligation to provide reasonable care to their residents. This duty encompasses various aspects, including medical care, personal care, safety, supervision, nutrition and hydration, emotional well-being.
- Breach of Duty: To prove liability, you must show that the nursing home's actions (or inactions) fell below the accepted standard of care. This could involve negligence, willful or reckless conduct, violation of regulations.
- Causation: It's not enough to show that the nursing home breached its duty. You must also prove that this breach directly caused the resident's injuries or harm.
- Damages: Finally, you must demonstrate the extent of the harm caused by the nursing home's negligence. This can include physical injuries, emotional distress, financial losses.
Gathering evidence to prove these elements is crucial. This may involve obtaining medical records, incident reports, witness statements, photographs, and video footage. An experienced attorney specializing in nursing home abuse cases can be invaluable in investigating the situation, gathering evidence, and building a strong case.
Compensation for Nursing Home Abuse Victims
Victims of nursing home abuse may be eligible for several forms of compensation, such as:
- Medical Expenses and Rehabilitation Costs: Coverage for medical treatments, hospital stays, and ongoing care.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for emotional trauma or reduced quality of life.
- Punitive Damages Against Negligent Facilities: Penalties to hold the facility accountable for gross misconduct.
Support for Families of Nursing Home Abuse Victims
At Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A.,, we believe in supporting families throughout the entire process. From evaluating claims to pursuing justice in court, we are here to ensure you and your loved one receive the guidance and compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., for Your Nursing Home Abuse Case?
When it comes to protecting the rights of nursing home residents, Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A. stands apart.
- Compassionate and Experienced Legal Representation: We treat every family with the empathy and respect they deserve.
- Proven Track Record of Success in Abuse Cases: Our results demonstrate our commitment to holding negligent facilities accountable.
- Commitment to Justice for Vulnerable Elders: We are passionate about advocating for Maryland’s most vulnerable residents.
Contact Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A. for a Free Case Consultation
If your loved one has been harmed due to nursing home abuse or neglect, contact the compassionate legal team at Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., today. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation. Justice for your family starts with one phone call.
Take a stand against negligence. Protect your loved ones and demand accountability by partnering with Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., your trusted Baltimore nursing home abuse attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Home Abuse
How can families prevent nursing home abuse?
Be proactive by visiting often, monitoring care, and addressing concerns immediately.
What should I do if I suspect abuse?
Document your concerns and contact an attorney to discuss your options.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Maryland law typically allows up to three years, but acting sooner is recommended.
How much does a nursing home abuse lawyer cost?
Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., offers free consultations, and many cases are handled on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we recover compensation.