A Firm Who Fights for Victims of Nursing Home Abuse And Neglect
Like the rest of the United States, Georgia is experiencing an increase in its population of senior citizens, many of whom need more care than their families can provide. This has put a lot of pressure on nursing homes and other long-term care facilities, which are often short-staffed. As such, reports of nursing home abuse and neglect are on the rise.
If you made the difficult decision to put a loved one in a nursing home and now suspect they are being neglected or abused, it is important to discuss your concerns and your options with an experienced legal advocate.
In north Georgia, look no further than the attorneys at The McGarity Group. Our firm is dedicated to assisting injury victims and their families, including victims of nursing home abuse and neglect, and we bring decades of combined legal experience to each case and client.
We offer free consultations on all cases and only get paid when we win. Book a free case evaluation today.
The Impact of Nursing Home Abuse on Families
Nursing home abuse doesn’t just affect the victims; it profoundly impacts their families as well. Discovering that a loved one has been mistreated can lead to feelings of guilt, anger, and betrayal. Families often face emotional stress while trying to ensure their loved one’s safety and well-being, and navigating legal options can add to the burden. At The McGarity Group, we understand the toll this situation takes and are here to provide compassionate support alongside aggressive legal advocacy.
Proactive Steps to Protect Your Loved Ones
Preventing nursing home abuse begins with being vigilant and proactive. Here are some measures families can take to protect their loved ones:
- Research facilities thoroughly before making a placement decision. Look at online reviews and state inspection reports, and speak with staff and residents during visits.
- Stay involved by visiting regularly, getting to know staff, and maintaining open communication with your loved one.
- Monitor their care plan, ensure staff adhere to medical recommendations, and address their needs.
- Document concerns if you notice signs of neglect or abuse, including taking photos, keeping notes, and saving communications.
Taking these steps can help mitigate the risk of abuse, and if something does go wrong, this documentation will be invaluable for legal action.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
If a nursing home resident hasn’t suffered any cognitive decline and can think and communicate clearly, they could simply tell their family members they are being abused or their needs aren’t being met. Unfortunately, however, many nursing home residents have Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other medical conditions that make clear communication difficult or impossible. In such cases, it is important to watch for indirect evidence of abuse or neglect, including:
- Inadequate personal hygiene and/or unsanitary living conditions
- Rapid weight loss, dehydration, or malnutrition that aren’t explained by any medical diagnosis they have received
- Unexplained bruises, cuts and other wounds
- Numerous instances of falling accidents and/or elopement (wandering off)
- A sudden negative change in their demeanor, mood, and personality (especially acting more fearful or withdrawn)
- Development of bedsores (pressure ulcers)
- Overhearing staff members berating or acting disrespectfully toward other residents
- Sudden and unexplained changes in their prescription drugs that weren’t discussed with you
Some of the warning signs mentioned above are not proof of abuse or neglect in and of themselves, but they are reasons to be suspicious. We make it easy to discuss your concerns with an attorney by offering free, no-obligation consultations.
Seeking Representation and Reporting to Authorities
If you know or suspect your loved one is being abused or neglected, it is likely necessary and advisable to report elder abuse to various state agencies. But you might want to contact a nursing home neglect attorney first. Unfortunately, these agencies can have surprisingly limited investigative and enforcement capabilities, and the timeline for taking action is often unacceptably long.
When you contact our firm, we can begin an immediate investigation. Based on what we discover, we can seek both short-term and long-term legal remedies in civil court. We will also work with you to ensure facilities committing elder abuse get reported to regulatory agencies and, if necessary, the police. The goal of a nursing home abuse lawyer is to get your loved one out of harm’s way as soon as possible and then to seek maximum compensation on their behalf.
FAQs
What experience does your law firm have with nursing home abuse cases specifically in Buford, Georgia?
Our law firm has extensive experience handling nursing home abuse cases in Buford, Georgia. We have successfully represented numerous clients in the area, helping them pursue justice for their loved ones and holding negligent facilities accountable.
Are there specific Georgia state laws that protect nursing home residents, and how do they apply to Buford facilities?
Yes, Georgia state laws, including the Georgia Bill of Rights for Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities, provide significant protections for nursing home residents. These laws set standards for care, protect residents’ rights, and offer recourse for victims of abuse or neglect. These protections apply to all nursing homes in Buford and throughout the state.
Do you offer free consultations for nursing home abuse cases in Buford?
Yes, we offer free consultations for nursing home abuse cases in Buford. allowing families to discuss their concerns and explore their legal options without financial obligation. We also only take payment if your case is successful.
How do your fees compare to those of other nursing home abuse lawyers in Buford, Georgia?
Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we recover compensation for you. We strive to keep our fees competitive with other nursing home abuse lawyers in Buford while providing a high level of personal attention and dedicated legal representation.
How can I tell if my loved one is experiencing neglect or abuse in a Buford nursing home?
Signs of neglect or abuse may include unexplained injuries, sudden weight loss, unsanitary living conditions, changes in mood or behavior, and the development of bedsores. If you suspect abuse, it is important to act quickly by documenting your observations and consulting with an attorney.
Can I file a nursing home abuse case if the abuse happened in Buford but I live in another city or state?
Yes, you can file a nursing home abuse case even if you live in a different city or state. Our nursing home abuse can represent you in Buford, ensuring your loved one’s rights are protected and working to hold the negligent facility accountable.
What evidence is most critical for nursing home abuse cases in Buford?
Key evidence often includes medical records, photographs of injuries or unsanitary conditions, eyewitness accounts, staff communication records, and documentation of any incidents or complaints filed. Collecting this evidence early is essential for building a strong case.
What is the success rate for your Buford nursing home abuse cases?
While every case is unique, our firm has a strong track record of success in nursing home abuse cases, including those in Buford. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients and their families.
Are there client testimonials specific to Buford nursing home abuse cases?
Yes, we have client testimonials highlighting our work in nursing home abuse cases in Buford. These testimonials reflect the dedication of our lawyers to nursing home neglect, illustrating the care we bring to every case and the positive outcomes we have achieved for our clients.
Tell Us Your Story in a Free Consultation
The McGarity Group is based in Buford, and we serve clients in the greater Atlanta metro area and throughout Georgia. To discuss your concerns and legal options with one of our caring and attentive attorneys, call us at 770-932-8477 or submit an online contact form.