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Los Angeles Assisted Living Abuse Lawyers

Posted December 26, 2024

Peck Law Group has over 56 years of combined experience in working with elder abuse cases.

Our Los Angeles Assisted Living Abuse Lawyers are dedicated to defending your rights and bringing those responsible to justice

We understand the pain and betrayal families experience in these situations.

As Steven C. Peck, Esq., founder of Peck Law Group, explains, “We are dedicated to protecting the vulnerable and ensuring justice for those who can’t advocate for themselves.”

Our commitment goes beyond legal representation. We strive to educate families about their rights, uncover signs of abuse, and work relentlessly to ensure that justice is served.

Whether it’s a case of neglect or abuse, we have the expertise and compassion to guide you through this challenging time.

Ready to speak with an experienced attorney about your assisted living abuse case in Los Angeles? Call toll free 866-999-9085 for fill out our simple form for your free case evaluation.

Table of Contents

  1. Your Los Angeles Assisted Living Abuse Law Firm
  2. What Constitutes Assisted Living Abuse?
  3. Recognizing the Signs of Abuse and neglect in Assisted Living Homes
  4. Assisted Living Abuse in Los Angeles, California
  5. Assisted Living Abuse Laws in California
  6. How to Prevent Assisted Living Abuse and Neglect
  7. How to Report Assisted Living Abuse and Neglect
  8. Why Choose Peck Law Group?
  9. The Legal Process for Assisted Living Abuse Cases
  10. Common Challenges in Elder Abuse Cases
  11. Residences Similar to Assisted Living Facilities in Los Angeles, California
  12. Frequently Asked Questions about Los Angeles Assisted Living Abuse Lawyers
  13. Peck Law Group’s Commitment to Justice

Your Los Angeles Assisted Living Abuse Law Firm

At Peck Law Group, our assisted living abuse attorneys specialize in handling a variety of cases in Los Angeles and throughout California, including:

Bed Sores

Bed sores, pressure ulcers, and pressure injuries, are often the result from prolonged neglect. Severe infections and complications can occur when caregivers fail to reposition residents regularly or ignore the warning signs of developing sores.

“Pressure ulcers are entirely preventable with proper care,” emphasizes Steven C. Peck, Esq. Our team ensures those responsible for neglect are held accountable.

Choking

Choking is frequently caused by improper supervision during meals or a lack of attention to dietary restrictions. This type of negligence may lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. We work to uncover the facts and secure justice for victims.

“Every meal should be a safe experience for residents,” states Adam J. Peck, Esq.

Dehydration

Dehydration is a common but avoidable issue in long-term care facilities. It signals a need for proper monitoring and care, often due to understaffing. Our firm fights for families whose loved ones have suffered due to this negligence.

Infections

Preventable infections, including sepsis and urinary tract infections, often stem from poor hygiene and inadequate medical attention.

“Infections left untreated can quickly become life-threatening,” explains Steven Peck, Esq. We hold facilities accountable for substandard practices.

Malnutrition

Malnutrition is a severe indicator of neglect in assisted living facilities. It results from improper meal planning or failure to address residents’ dietary needs.

Our attorneys ensure facilities are held responsible for failing to meet basic care standards.

Sexual Battery

Sexual battery is a devastating form of abuse that requires immediate legal intervention.

Victims of sexual abuse and their families trust Peck Law Group to handle these cases with sensitivity and determination.

“Every resident deserves a safe and dignified environment,” asserts Adam Peck, Esq.

Elderly Elopement

Elopement occurs when residents with cognitive impairments wander from the facility unsupervised.

This poses significant risks, including injury and death. Facilities must implement stringent safety measures to prevent such occurrences.

We ensure they are held to the highest standards of accountability.

Falls with Injuries

Falls cause more injuries in assisted living facilities than nearly any other incident. These incidents often result from inadequate supervision or unsafe living conditions.

“Facilities must prioritize fall prevention to protect their residents,” emphasizes Adam Peck, Esq.

Other Elder Abuse Cases

Our expertise extends to other forms of elder abuse and neglect, including emotional abuse and wrongful death. No matter the situation, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation.

With over 56 years of combined experience, our team is uniquely equipped to handle the complexities of assisted living abuse cases in Los Angeles.

We prioritize clear communication, thorough investigation, and aggressive advocacy to ensure justice for our clients. Contact us today for a free case evaluation, and let us help you protect the rights and dignity of your loved ones.

Woman with caregiver looking out onto a sunny field.

What Constitutes Assisted Living Abuse?

Assisted living abuse encompasses a range of harmful actions or inactions, often stemming from understaffing, poor training, or deliberate mistreatment. Abuse can take various forms, including:

  • Physical Abuse: This includes injuries such as bruises, fractures, or unexplained wounds caused by hitting, pushing, or rough handling. Victims of physical abuse often suffer from both visible injuries and more profound psychological trauma, such as anxiety or fear of caregivers. “Documentation of visible injuries is crucial to building a strong case,” advises Steven C. Peck, Esq.
  • Emotional Abuse: Caregivers may use verbal threats, humiliation, intimidation, or isolation to control or hurt residents. This can lead to emotional distress, withdrawal from social interactions, and feeling helpless.
  • Neglect: When an assisted living facility fails to provide adequate care, including food, water, hygiene, and medical attention, it constitutes neglect. Signs include malnutrition, dehydration, untreated medical conditions, and a decline in overall well-being.
  • Sexual Abuse: Non-consensual sexual contact or exploitation is a heinous form of abuse that demands immediate legal intervention. This abuse often goes unreported due to fear, shame, or cognitive impairments. “Residents have the right to feel safe and secure in their living environment,” adds Adam J. Peck, Esq.

Abuse and neglect in assisted living facilities can have serious consequences, so be sure to act right away if you suspect wrongdoing.

Our mission is to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions and ensure your rights are protected. Speak with an experienced assisted living abuse lawyer today to learn more about how we can help you.

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Recognizing the Signs of Abuse and neglect in Assisted Living Homes

Many victims of abuse in assisted living homes are unable or unwilling to speak up. This silence often stems from fear, cognitive impairments, or threats from perpetrators. Families should remain vigilant for warning signs, including:

  • Behavioral Changes: Look for signs of withdrawal, fearfulness, or sudden shifts in personality. These may indicate emotional or psychological abuse. Residents who once enjoyed social activities may suddenly isolate themselves or exhibit signs of fear around certain staff members.
  • Unexplained Injuries: Frequent hospital visits, bruises, or worsening medical conditions can suggest physical abuse or neglect. Pay attention to injuries inconsistent with explanations provided by the facility staff. “Unexplained injuries should always be investigated,” emphasizes Steven C. Peck, Esq.
  • Poor Living Conditions: Unsanitary environments, soiled bedding, and general neglect of cleanliness are red flags. A facility’s inability to maintain hygiene standards reflects directly on its care practices.
  • Weight Loss or Dehydration: These may indicate malnutrition or neglect, especially if coupled with a lack of medical attention. Consistent weight loss without a medical explanation often indicates inadequate care.
  • Financial Irregularities: Missing funds, changes in financial documents, or sudden spending spikes could point to financial exploitation. Families should monitor bank statements and financial records for unauthorized transactions.

If you notice any of these indicators, it’s critical to consult an experienced legal professional to investigate further. Addressing these concerns early can prevent further harm and secure justice for your loved one.

Assisted Living Abuse in Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is home to numerous assisted living facilities, serving one of the largest elderly populations in the nation.

The city’s diverse cultural landscape adds complexity to caregiving, as facilities must often meet varying linguistic, dietary, and cultural needs.

While some facilities excel in providing specialized care, others fall alarmingly short, leading to neglect and abuse.

The demand for long-term care in Los Angeles has surged, straining resources and exposing systemic issues such as:

  • Understaffing: With insufficient staff-to-resident ratios, many facilities struggle to meet basic care standards. Overworked caregivers may unintentionally overlook crucial health needs, resulting in neglect or substandard care.
  • Inadequate Training: Training deficiencies among staff contribute to mishandling medical emergencies, improper medication administration, and unsafe interactions with residents. “Proper training is fundamental to quality care,” notes Adam Peck, Esq.
  • Profit-Driven Operations: Facilities prioritizing profit over care often cut costs by hiring unqualified staff, reducing meal quality, or postponing necessary repairs.

Financial constraints and underfunded facilities have further exacerbated risks for vulnerable residents in neighborhoods such as Koreatown, Boyle Heights, and Downtown Los Angeles.

Reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation are especially prevalent in lower-income areas where oversight may be weaker.

As Steven C. Peck, Esq., emphasizes, “Elderly and dependent adults deserve dignity, respect, and the highest standard of care. Anything less is unacceptable.”

Whether your loved one resides in a high-end facility in Westwood or an economy care home in South LA, the expectation of safety and dignity should remain the same.

If you suspect your loved one has suffered abuse or neglect, speak with a Los Angeles assisted living abuse lawyer today for your free case evaluation.

Assisted Living Abuse Laws in California

California has robust laws designed to protect elderly residents in assisted living facilities. These laws ensure that facilities provide a safe environment and meet residents’ physical, emotional, and social needs. Key legal protections include:

  • The Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act (EADACPA): This act provides legal recourse for victims of abuse and neglect, allowing families to seek damages for their loved ones. It also ensures punitive damages in cases of intentional misconduct. “EADACPA has empowered countless families to seek justice,” Steven C. Peck, ESQ, explains.
  • Regulations for Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFEs): These state-mandated guidelines set minimum standards for staffing, training, and care in assisted living facilities. Facilities failing to meet these standards face fines and license revocation.
  • Mandatory Reporting Requirements: Caregivers and medical professionals are required to report suspected abuse or neglect to authorities. Failure to do so can result in penalties for those responsible. Reporting requirements ensure that abuse cases are documented and investigated promptly.

Violating these laws can result in hefty penalties, fines, license revocation, and criminal charges.

Our attorneys leverage legal frameworks to hold negligent facilities accountable and secure justice for victims.

“Knowledge of the law is a powerful tool in the fight against elder abuse,” says Adam J. Peck, Esq.

How to Prevent Assisted Living Abuse and Neglect

Preventing abuse and neglect in assisted living facilities requires vigilance, proactive measures, and advocacy. Families and loved ones can take several steps to ensure their elderly relatives receive the care they deserve:

  • Research Facilities Thoroughly: Conduct extensive research before selecting an assisted living facility. Visit the facility multiple times, observe the staff’s behavior, and ask about staff-to-resident ratios and training programs.
  • Monitor Care Regularly: Stay involved in your loved one’s life by visiting unannounced. Regular interactions with staff and residents allow you to spot red flags early.
  • Build Relationships with Staff: Developing positive relationships with caregivers can encourage transparency and accountability.
  • Educate Yourself and Your Loved One: Understand residents’ rights and ensure your loved one knows how to voice concerns or report mistreatment.
  • Advocate for Better Policies: Join local advocacy groups that push for stricter regulations and better training for assisted living staff.

Taking these proactive steps helps prevent abuse and ensures your loved one feels supported and cared for in their living environment.

Black male sitting with tablet, plant in background.

How to Report Assisted Living Abuse and Neglect

If you suspect that your loved one is a victim of abuse or neglect in an assisted living home, it is essential to act quickly.

Contact local authorities or law enforcement to ensure their safety if the victim is under immediate threat.

When the danger is not immediate, contacting Peck Law Group is the best action. Here’s how we shall assist you:

  1. Contact Us Immediately: Call the Peck Law Group for a free case evaluation. Our experienced elder abuse attorneys will hear your concerns, answer questions, and provide you with a clear plan of action tailored to your case.
  2. Document Evidence: We will guide you through gathering critical evidence, such as photographs of injuries, unsanitary conditions, or financial discrepancies. Keeping a log of dates and incidents will strengthen your case.
  3. File Reports with Authorities: Our team will assist you in reporting the abuse to local authorities, such as Adult Protective Services, ensuring that your loved one’s situation is thoroughly investigated.
  4. Communicate with Facility Management: We will handle communication with the facility’s administrators on your behalf to demand accountability and immediate corrective actions.
  5. Pursue Legal Action: The Peck Law Group will represent you and your loved one throughout the legal process, seeking justice and maximum compensation for the harm caused.

By choosing the Peck Law Group, you partner with a team of seasoned advocates committed to protecting your rights and holding assisted living homes accountable. Speak with an assisted living abuse attorney in Los Angeles today and take the first step toward justice.

Why Choose Peck Law Group?

With over 54 years of combined experience, Peck Law Group has earned a reputation as a trusted advocate for victims of elder abuse. Our team stands out for several reasons:

  • Specialized Expertise: We focus exclusively on elder abuse cases, allowing for a deep understanding of the legal and medical complexities involved. This experience allows us to craft effective strategies tailored to each case.
  • Proven Track Record: We have secured significant client settlements and verdicts, including seven-figure awards in high-profile cases. These results highlight our commitment to achieving justice for our clients.
  • Compassionate Advocacy: Our team provides personalized attention to every client, ensuring their needs and concerns are addressed throughout the legal process. We prioritize clear communication and make ourselves available to answer questions and provide updates.
  • Statewide Representation: With offices throughout California, including Los Angeles, Sacramento, Palm Springs / Palm Desert, and San Diego, we are equipped to handle cases across the state. Our localized expertise ensures we understand each community’s unique needs and legal landscapes.

Steven C. Peck states, “At Peck Law Group, we stand by our clients every step of the way, fighting for justice with integrity and determination.” Our dedication to excellence and passion for protecting older adults make us the trusted firm for assisted living abuse cases.

Assisted living abuse lawyer with pen in hand pointing at agreement to sign on desk.

The Legal Process for Assisted Living Abuse Cases

Pursuing a legal claim for assisted living abuse can seem daunting, but our experienced attorneys make the process manageable. Here’s what to expect:

1. Initial Consultation

We start by listening to your story, gathering details about the suspected abuse, and determining whether you have a viable case. This consultation is free of charge and allows us to assess your needs. During this phase, we provide a clear roadmap of the legal process and what you can expect. As Steven C. Peck states, “Our initial goal is to ensure clients feel heard and empowered to take action.”

2. Evidence Collection

Our team works diligently to ensure all relevant evidence is collected, including medical records, photographs, witness statements, and facility documentation. We also collaborate with medical and forensic experts to strengthen your claim. “Evidence is the foundation of justice,” emphasizes Adam J. Peck, Esq.

3. Filing a Claim

We file all required legal documents to start your case and ensure they comply with procedural rules. This step is crucial in formally beginning the legal process and putting negligent parties on notice.

4. Negotiation and Mediation

Many cases are settled through negotiation or mediation, saving time and expense. However, we are fully prepared to go to trial when necessary. Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for our clients, whether through a settlement or a court verdict.

5. Trial Representation

If a settlement isn’t possible, our attorneys will aggressively advocate for your rights in court. Our goal is to obtain maximum compensation for your loved one’s suffering. Drawing on our extensive trial experience, we present a powerful and persuasive case to the jury. “When the stakes are high, our commitment is unwavering,” says Steven C. Peck.

Common Challenges in Elder Abuse Cases

Elder abuse cases present unique challenges, including:

  • Proving Negligence: Establishing that the facility failed to meet its duty of care requires meticulous evidence and expert testimony. This often involves gathering medical records and witness statements to build a compelling case.
  • Overcoming Arbitration Agreements: Many facilities require residents to sign arbitration agreements, complicating legal proceedings. Our attorneys have successfully opposed hundreds of such petitions, ensuring clients retain their right to a jury trial. NEVER SIGN AN ARBITRATION AGREEMENT!!!
  • Emotional Toll: Families often struggle with guilt and grief, making it challenging to navigate the legal process. Our compassionate team provides the support and guidance needed to move forward.

Steven C. Peck states, “We understand the challenges these cases present emotionally and legally. We’re here to support you every step of the way.” We take pride in navigating these challenges and securing favorable outcomes for our clients.

Picture of the outside of a modern, square shaped assisted living facility.

Residences Similar to Assisted Living Facilities in Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles Nursing Homes

Nursing homes in Los Angeles provide continuous medical care for seniors with serious health needs.

Unfortunately, many face challenges like understaffing and poor oversight, which lead to:

  • Neglect of Basic Needs: Insufficient staffing often prevents residents from receiving adequate food, water, or medical attention. This neglect causes dehydration, malnutrition, and worsening health conditions.
  • Physical Mistreatment: Staff members sometimes handle residents roughly, use excessive restraints, or apply unnecessary force, resulting in harm and trauma.
  • Medication Errors: Errors in medication, such as incorrect dosages or prescriptions, frequently have severe consequences.

Families should remain vigilant for signs such as bedsores, sudden weight loss, or unexplained injuries.

Los Angeles Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)

CCRCs in Los Angeles combine various levels of care—independent living, assisted living, and nursing care—within one community. While this model offers flexibility, it also introduces challenges, including:

  • Communication Issues: Poor coordination between departments delays care, causes missed medical treatments, and leads to administrative errors during transitions between care levels.
  • Social Isolation: Seniors in independent living often lack social interaction or oversight, leaving them vulnerable to emotional neglect.
  • Financial Exploitation: Complex CCRC contracts frequently result in hidden fees, overcharges, or misuse of funds.

Families should stay informed about care plans, carefully review financial agreements, and monitor changes in their loved one’s physical or emotional health.

Orange 3d questions marks.

Frequently Asked Questions about Los Angeles Assisted Living Abuse Lawyers

What should I do if I suspect abuse at an assisted living facility in Los Angeles?

If you suspect your loved one is being abused, document your observations, take photographs of injuries or unsafe conditions, and report your concerns to facility administrators. Then, reach out to Peck Law Group to speak with an experienced Los Angeles assisted living abuse lawyer to explore your options.

How long does the legal process take?

This varies depending on the complexity of your case. While some instances settle within months, others may take longer if they proceed to trial. We resolve cases as efficiently as possible without compromising your loved one’s rights.

What compensation is available?

Victims of abuse may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, medical expenses, and, in some cases, punitive damages. We work tirelessly to maximize your recovery.

How do I choose the right assisted living facility for my loved one?

Research facilities thoroughly, visit them in person, and check for past violations or complaints. Be sure to speak with the facility’s residents to ensure they are receiving quality care.

What legal rights do residents of assisted living facilities have?

Residents are entitled to safe and humane treatment, adequate medical care, and freedom from abuse and neglect. California law provides robust protections for these rights, and facilities that violate them can be held accountable.

What happens if the facility denies the abuse occurred?

Our legal team investigates thoroughly, gathering evidence to substantiate your claims. Facilities often deny wrongdoing, but we have the expertise to build a strong case and effectively challenge their defenses.

Photo of Peck Law Group Elder Abuse Lawyers with law books in background

Peck Law Group’s Commitment to Justice

Our passion for assisted living abuse advocacy stems from personal experiences and a deep understanding of families’ challenges.

Lead attorney Adam J. Peck, Esq., states, “Our firm’s mission is to give a voice to those who cannot speak for themselves and to ensure justice is served.”

With offices across California, including Los Angeles, Peck Law Group is ready to assist you. We leverage our extensive experience and resources to achieve the best possible outcomes for every client.

Take Action on Your Assisted Living Abuse Case Today

Assisted living abuse demands immediate attention. If you suspect your loved one is being abused or neglected, it’s important to act right away.

We operate on contingency, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Justice begins with a single step. Call toll free (866) 999-9085 or visit our free case evaluation page to speak with an experienced Los Angeles Assisted Living Abuse Lawyer today.

 Together, we can hold negligent facilities accountable and protect the rights of your loved ones.

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