Sexual abuse of any kind is serious. If you suspect your loved one is undergoing such inappropriate and unacceptable behavior, do not wait to give our firm a call today to discuss your options with a California elder abuse lawyer. We are on your side.
What is elder sexual abuse in California and how is it defined?
In the state of California, elder sexual abuse occurs in the event that an individual faces any non-consensual sexual contact with another person. Unfortunately, when looking at elderly groups and those suffering from dementia and other mental conditions, they are one of the more common targets for this type of abuse. Because of this, those who are residing in long-term care facilities should be kept a close eye on them to ensure they do not face these unacceptable actions. Our firm understands that the mere thought of this behavior can be challenging to even think about, however, it is something that should be recognized in order to protect yourself or your loved ones. There are a number of warning signs to look out for as well, and if detected on time, can ultimately save an individual’s life. Just some of the potential warning signs of elder sexual abuse include, and are not limited to, the following:
- Physical injuries to private areas
- PTSD or sudden changes in personality
- Showing signs of fear around certain aides or residents
- Having panic attacks
It is in your best interest to reach out to a legal professional if you notice any of these behaviors or have suspicions regarding sexual elder abuse happening to a loved one. Even if you are not sure, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Our legal team is equipped with the knowledge and experience required to take the necessary actions to protect your loved one. Give us a call today to get started. We are here for you.
How long do I have to file an elder abuse claim in California?
Just like with most legal claims, the state of California has a statute of limitations in place that defines how long a person can wait to bring an elder abuse claim against an elder care facility. The statute of limitations for claims like these is typically two years. This indicates that if someone waits any longer than two years to bring a claim of elder abuse, they will most likely lose their ability to file this claim completely.
As a result of this, if you believe you are facing a case of elder abuse, you should not move on without the help of a skilled attorney. At Cowdrey & Jenkins, LLP, our legal team has the experience required to obtain justice and safety for your loved one. Contact us today.