Tualatin Elder Abuse Attorney: Protecting Your Loved Ones In Oregon Elder Abuse Cases
Whether you have elderly relatives in nursing homes or they receive in-home care, they may be at risk for elder abuse or neglect. At Martin, Elliott & Snell P.C. in Tualatin, we represent elders and their families in Oregon elder abuse and neglect cases.
With our caring, experienced personal injury lawyers on your side, you can be certain that you are receiving committed, knowledgeable elder law representation. We have been serving the Tualatin community for more than 40 years, so you can count on our experience and our reputation in this area. Get in touch with us today to learn more.
Have You Noticed Signs Of Elder Abuse And Neglect?
There are many examples of elder abuse and neglect, whether they are physical, mental or criminal. Some of the most common examples are:
- Bruises
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Malnutrition and dehydration
- Overmedication or missed doses
- Sexual abuse
- Bedsores
- Cuts and lacerations
- Restraint injuries
- Injuries from falling
- Wandering off unattended
- Unsanitary conditions
- Untreated illness or injury
- Unexplained bleeding
- Financial exploitation
- Changes to a will or estate plan
- Theft of personal property
- Unexplained death
Please contact us to discuss your concerns about elder abuse or neglect.
Why Should You Hire Us As Your Tualatin Elder Law Attorneys?
We work with seniors in several areas of law. Our firm has a long history of providing representation to seniors. In addition to elder abuse and elder neglect, we help seniors in areas including estate planning, estate litigation and probate matters. We also represent them in family law cases, such as “gray divorce” for people over age 50.
Whether you need a negotiator or a trial lawyer, our attorneys can help you and your family with any of these issues.
What Signs Of Elder Abuse Should You Look For?
In addition to the list above, you may have noticed other signs in your loved one, such as fearful behavior, withdrawing from others, inability to speak or angry outbursts. Their living conditions may be dirty. You may notice financial irregularities or missing items. Sudden, unusual changes to a will, trust or power of attorney may also be a sign of abuse.
Commonly Asked Questions About Oregon Elder Abuse
These questions and answers can enhance your understanding of how to protect your loved one and pursue justice when harm occurs.
How does elder abuse differ from elder neglect?
Elder abuse and elder neglect are related but distinct forms of mistreatment. Elder abuse is a deliberate act to cause harm or distress to an older adult. The act may include:
- Physical abuse
- Emotional or psychological abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Financial exploitation
- Intentional isolation
On the other hand, elder neglect is the failure to provide the necessary care an older person needs to maintain their health and safety. Examples are failure to offer:
- Adequate food
- Better hygiene
- Proper medical care
- Proper supervision
- Safe living environment
Both elder abuse and neglect can happen at home, an assisted living facility, a nursing home or other care settings.
If my loved one is unable to make decisions for themselves, how can I legally support them with elder abuse issues?
Report elder abuse through Oregon’s toll-free hotline or to the Oregon Department of Human Services website in situations involving immediate danger. Additionally, if your loved one lacks the capacity to make decisions, you can act on their behalf under a power of attorney.
Under Oregon law, a power of attorney formally grants you, as a trusted person, the authority to make legal or financial decisions on the elder’s behalf. However, that authority must be granted before the capacity to make a decision is lost. If no power of attorney exists, you can petition the court for guardianship or conservatorship.
What types of damages can be recovered in an elder abuse case?
Compensation for damages in Oregon is classified into two categories: economic damages and noneconomic damages. Economic damages are calculable financial losses that include medical bills, the cost of future care and property damage.
On the other hand, noneconomic damages cover intangible losses beyond financial costs, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of dignity and reduced quality of life.
Elder abuse cases can be complex and emotionally challenging, but an experienced elder abuse lawyer helps ensure your loved one’s rights are upheld.
Let’s Talk Today About Our Elder Law Practice
Located in Tualatin, we offer experienced, compassionate representation for seniors and their families. Our Tualatin elder abuse attorneys and staff are kind and helpful to every client. We are here because we truly want to help you resolve your elder law needs.
For a free 15-minute consultation, please call our law office at 503-868-5057 today. You can contact us online if you prefer.