What to Know About Elder Sexual Abuse in California

It is often unimaginable to think that your loved one is facing elder sexual abuse. However, it is important not to look away from this horrible behavior and to take action to ensure your loved one is safe. Read on and reach out to our firm today to speak with a skilled California nursing home abuse lawyer about the details of your case.

How is elder sexual abuse defined in California?

In the state of California, sexual abuse is defined as when an individual encounters any non-consensual sexual contact with another individual. Unfortunately, there have been many instances of sexual abuse have been seen with elderly persons with dementia or other mental conditions. This is because these elderly groups have been seen as easier targets for sexual abuse. Those who live in long-term care facilities must always be watched to ensure these actions never happen. Even though it is difficult for anyone to think about this horrible behavior, it is essential to identify the many potential warning signs of sexual abuse that, if spotted on time, can save an individual’s life. Just some of the potential warning signs of elder sexual abuse include:

  • PTSD or sudden changes in personality
  • Physical injuries to private areas
  • Displaying signs of fear around certain aides or residents
  • Having panic attacks

If you notice any of these behaviors or have skepticism about sexual elder abuse occurring to a loved one, do not wait to take action as soon as you can. It is always better to be safe than sorry. Give our firm a call today to discuss the facts of your situation with a trusted legal team member.

What is the statute of limitations for elder abuse claims in California?

Recognize that 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 these claims in California is typically two years. This means 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 altogether.

As a result, if you believe you are facing a case of elder abuse, you should not carry on without the support of an experienced attorney. At Cowdrey & Jenkins, LLP, our legal team has handled elder abuse claims for years, and we can do the same for you.

Contact our experienced California firm

Here at Cowdrey Jenkins, LLP, we have significant experience representing clients through a wide array of elder abuse matters, and we are prepared to assist you as well. No one should have to face the issue of elder abuse on their own. Contact us today to learn more about how we can guide you through each facet of the legal process ahead.