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Answers provided by NJ elder care lawyers
1. How do I know if my loved one is a victim
of nursing home neglect or abuse?
Determining if your loved one is a victim of nursing home neglect
or abuse can sometimes be difficult, especially if your loved
one has trouble communicating with you. Under these circumstances,
you should examine your loved ones carefully. Signs of nursing
home neglect or abuse can include unexplained bruising, broken
bones, bedsores, malnutrition, dehydration, weight loss and
contractures. It is important that you take action quickly if
you suspect your loved one is being neglected or abused. An NJ elder care attorney can better advise you as to what counts as abuse, as well as what signs and symptoms to look for at your loved one's nursing home.
2. Can I prove my case if my loved one is unable to
testify?
Absolutely. Victims of nursing home neglect or abuse are often
unable to testify because they are either unable to communicate
or are deceased. However, as experienced New Jersey elder law attorneys, we are often called upon to establish these injustices through
use of the medical records, our team of medical experts, and
through testimony of the family and nursing home staff.
3. How long do I have to file a claim for damages my
loved one suffered as a result of nursing home neglect or abuse?
This depends on when the neglect or abuse was discovered, as
well as a number of other potential complicated legal factors.
We strongly recommend that if you suspect your loved one is
being neglected or abused that you immediately contact an NJ elder care attorney.
4. How much is my claim worth?
Our NJ elder care lawyers evaluate each claim case by case with our team of medical experts.
Although we can provide you with our opinions as to
the value of your claim, a jury will determine the amount of
money to be awarded if the case does not settle before trial.
5. Can I file a lawsuit on behalf of my loved one who
was injured in a nursing home?
If your loved one is competent, than a NJ elder care attorney will most likely file the lawsuit in your loved one's own name.
However, if you have a durable
power of attorney, are the legally appointed guardian, or are
the Executor of your loved one’s estate, then you can
probably file the lawsuit on his or her behalf
The New Jersey elder care attorneys at the Gough Law Firm can assist you in preparing
the necessary legal documents in order to file a claim on behalf
of your loved one if he or she is incompetent or deceased.
6. What are bedsores and are they preventable?
Bedsores, also known as pressure sores or decubitus ulcers,
are areas of injured skin and tissue that are usually caused
by pressure on the skin from sitting or lying in one position
for too long. The pressure can reduce the blood supply to the
skin and tissue under the skin. Bed sores are often located
on the lower back, buttocks and heels.
Bed sores are usually preventable with proper care, including
frequent turning and repositioning, providing proper nutrition,
and keeping the skin areas clean and dry. Unfortunately, when
bed sores become infected they can be fatal. If you notice bedsores on your loved one, contact a NJ elder care attorney to discuss your situation.
7. What are other signs that my loved one is a victim
of nursing home negligence or abuse?
There are many different signs that your loved one may be a
victim of nursing home neglect or abuse. Some of the commons
signs include: loss of weight, dehydration and malnutrition,
chronic infection, unexplained bruising or broken bones, and
poor hygiene. If you see any of these signs and suspect abuse, call the experienced New Jersey elder law attorneys to investigate the situation for you.
8. Can we settle without having to go to trial?
Yes. Although we are always prepared to afford you your day in court, an NJ elder care attorney will most often settle the case before an actual trial.
9. Will I have to pay an attorney’s fee?
Our New Jersey elder law attorneys work on a contingency fee basis.
We will also advance all costs and expenses of
your case on your behalf.
Disclaimer: This web site is designed for general
information only. The information on this site should not be
construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of an
attorney-client relationship.
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Hackensack, New Jersey 07601
