CHOOSE A LAWYER LIKE YOUR LIFE DEPENDS ON IT.
Monongalia County Lawyer Advocates for Victims of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Dedicated West Virginia Attorney Protecting Elderly Clients’ Rights
Seniors and their families count on nursing homes and similar facilities to deliver compassionate and effective care. Sadly, this doesn’t always happen. Instances of mistreatment can inflict serious and lasting harm, particularly because vulnerable elderly residents may struggle to report the neglect or abuse they endure. At Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, based in Monongalia County, West Virginia, we represent victims of nursing home abuse and negligence, helping them seek rightful compensation while taking action to end unethical practices.
Recognizing Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Elderly nursing home residents are often susceptible to mistreatment, yet their ability to voice concerns may be limited. If you suspect someone you care about is being harmed, certain physical, emotional, and behavioral changes could be warning signs indicating a deeper problem, including:
- Bedsores
- Unexplained injuries such as bruises or fractures
- Symptoms related to malnutrition or dehydration
- Signs of depression like excessive crying or social withdrawal
- Behavioral changes such as unusual silence or anger
- Poor hygiene or recurring infections
- Instances of wandering without supervision
While these signs don’t always confirm negligence or abuse, it is critical to conduct a thorough assessment of the situation. An experienced West Virginia personal injury attorney from Mountaineer Criminal Law Group can investigate and challenge the explanations facilities provide to cover up inappropriate behaviors. This ensures that the truth comes to light.
Holding Nursing Homes Accountable for Negligence
Proving nursing home negligence involves demonstrating that the facility failed in its duty of care toward the resident. With many forms of abuse and negligence occurring, there are countless ways to establish liability in these cases. Evidence like photographs, victim statements, medical records, witness testimony, and even regulatory filings can strengthen the case against a negligent facility.
When liability is established, abuse or neglect victims may be entitled to compensation covering:
- Medical care for physical, emotional, and psychological trauma.
- Pain and suffering resulting from mistreatment.
- Long-term effects, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The goal is not only to recover damages on behalf of the victim but also to hold irresponsible facilities accountable and prevent similar cases in the future.
Reporting Nursing Home Neglect and Taking Legal Action
West Virginia provides a telephone hotline for reporting suspected nursing home abuse or neglect. While this is an essential resource, state regulators have limited authority in addressing such incidents and securing justice for victims. That’s why reaching out to a knowledgeable lawyer is critical.
If the elderly victim is unable to pursue financial or legal decisions due to incapacity, obtaining power of attorney may be necessary to initiate a case. Given the importance of swift action, it’s advisable to contact a West Virginia car accident lawyer or a West Virginia personal injury attorney—like the team at Mountaineer Criminal Law Group—as soon as possible.
Request a Free Consultation with a West Virginia Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
At Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, we specialize in assisting victims of nursing home abuse and neglect throughout West Virginia. To learn about your options in addressing mistreatment at a care facility, reach out for a free consultation today. Contact our team at 304-202-5835 or connect with us online to get started.