Evanston Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

Legal Help for Victims of Nursing Home Abuse in Evanston, IL

Nursing homes are entrusted with the care, dignity, and well-being of their residents, but not all facilities meet the required standards. Neglect, medical errors, and physical abuse can lead to devastating consequences, including serious injuries, emotional trauma, and wrongful death. Families in Evanston who suspect their loved ones are suffering from mistreatment should take immediate action to protect their rights and hold negligent facilities accountable.

At our Chicago nursing home abuse law firm, we have helped families throughout Illinois recover compensation for their loved ones who have suffered from neglect or abuse. Whether a facility has failed to provide proper medical care, prevent falls, or respond to safety concerns, we work tirelessly to pursue justice and financial recovery for affected families.

Recent Settlements in Nursing Home Abuse Cases

Many families have taken legal action against nursing homes, leading to significant settlements. Some recent case outcomes include:

• $2,150,000 wrongful death settlement for a resident who developed severe bedsores and sepsis due to improper medical care.
• $1,250,000 settlement for a family whose loved one choked to death due to improper supervision, resolving the case before litigation.
• $735,000 settlement for a resident who suffered multiple fractures, including a broken leg and spinal injuries, after falling from an unattended wheelchair.

These cases show the importance of holding negligent nursing homes accountable and ensuring victims receive the compensation they deserve.

What Compensation Can Be Recovered in a Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuit?

Victims of nursing home neglect or abuse may be entitled to financial compensation for:

• Medical costs for hospitalization, rehabilitation, or ongoing care
• Pain and suffering due to physical or emotional trauma
• Wrongful death damages for families who lost a loved one due to negligence
• Relocation expenses if the victim needs to be moved to another facility

Many cases are resolved through negotiated settlements, but when necessary, our attorneys are prepared to take cases to trial to fight for maximum compensation.

Evanston, Illinois: A Community with Assisted Living and Nursing Homes

Evanston, located north of Chicago along the Lake Michigan shoreline, is known for its historic architecture, cultural institutions, and strong healthcare system. The city is home to Northwestern University, the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian, and Grosse Point Lighthouse, providing residents with a mix of education, history, and scenic beauty.

For elderly residents requiring long-term care, Evanston offers nursing homes, assisted living centers, and memory care facilities. Notable establishments include:​

• Three Crowns Park: An inviting community for individuals aged 62 and better, offering a continuum of care that includes skilled nursing services. 
• Westminster Place: Part of Presbyterian Homes, this facility provides 24-hour specialized short- and long-term care in a beautiful setting. 
• Alden Estates of Evanston: Specializing in transitional care and post-acute services, this facility optimizes the transition from hospital to home. ​
• Dobson Plaza Rehabilitation and Healthcare: Offers subacute rehabilitation, long-term care, and respite care services. ​
• The Mather: A luxury senior living community for individuals aged 62 and better, providing a continuum of care in a vibrant setting. ​

The city is also served by NorthShore University HealthSystem – Evanston Hospital, one of the region’s leading medical centers specializing in geriatric and rehabilitative care.

While many facilities in Evanston provide quality senior care, others have been cited for violations related to understaffing, inadequate medical attention, and failure to prevent injuries. Before deciding, families should thoroughly research nursing homes by reviewing state and federal inspection records.

How to Check Nursing Home Ratings and Facility Complaints

Families considering nursing home placement or investigating suspected neglect can research facilities using:

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Nursing Home Ratings – A five-star rating system evaluating health inspections, staffing levels, and care quality.
• Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Long-Term Care Facility Reports – Provides detailed inspection results, complaint investigations, and citations for violations.

These tools help families identify nursing homes with poor safety records and past legal actions.

Legal Protections for Nursing Home Residents in Illinois

State and federal laws establish strict regulations to prevent elder abuse in nursing homes, including:

• Illinois Nursing Home Care Act (210 ILCS 45) – Outlines resident rights and facility obligations to prevent neglect and mistreatment.
• Federal Nursing Home Reform Act (42 U.S.C. § 1395i-3) – Mandates minimum care standards, proper staffing, and resident safety protocols.
• Chicago Municipal Code 4-6-100 – Establishes local licensing and safety regulations for long-term care facilities operating in the city.

When facilities fail to meet these legal obligations, families may have grounds for a lawsuit.

Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Families should watch for warning signs of neglect or abuse, including:

• Unexplained injuries – Bedsores, bruises, broken bones, or infections
• Poor hygiene and malnutrition – Weight loss, dehydration, or unsanitary conditions
• Behavioral changes – Depression, fear of staff, or social withdrawal
• Financial exploitation – Unauthorized withdrawals, missing personal belongings, or sudden changes to legal documents

If any of these signs are present, families should take immediate action to protect their loved one.

Steps to Take If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse

Step 1: Recognize the Signs

• Observe any physical, emotional, or financial abuse indicators.
• Speak directly with your loved one to discuss concerns.

Step 2: Report the Abuse

• Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH): 1-800-252-4343
• Chicago Adult Protective Services: (312) 744-4016

Step 3: Document Evidence

• Take photographs of injuries or poor facility conditions.
• Request medical records, incident reports, and financial statements.
• Speak with staff, residents, or other family members about concerns.

Step 4: Contact an Evanston Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

A nursing home abuse attorney can help investigate the case, file a legal claim, and hold care facilities accountable for failing to meet their legal duties.

How an Evanston Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Can Help

At Nursing Home Law Center, we represent families throughout Illinois, including Evanston and Chicago, in cases of elder abuse and nursing home neglect. Our legal team will:

• Investigate facility records, past violations, and staffing practices
• Collect medical records, expert testimony, and witness statements
• Negotiate settlements to maximize compensation for victims and their families
• Take cases to trial when facilities refuse to accept responsibility

Deadlines for Filing a Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuit in Illinois

Illinois law sets strict deadlines for nursing home abuse lawsuits:

• Personal injury claims (735 ILCS 5/13-202) – Must be filed within two years of discovering the injury.
• Wrongful death claims (735 ILCS 5/13-209) – Must be filed within two years from the date of death.

Failing to file before these deadlines can prevent families from pursuing compensation.

Contact an Evanston Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Today

If your loved one has suffered nursing home abuse or neglect in Evanston, do not wait. Our attorneys are ready to investigate, fight for justice, and recover the compensation your family deserves. Call (800) 926-7565 today for a free consultation.