Hackensack Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

Nursing homes are trusted with the care of our most vulnerable loved ones, but when that trust is broken due to nursing home abuse, it can have devastating consequences. Abuse and nursing home neglect are serious issues in Hackensack and across New Jersey, leaving nursing home residents physically, emotionally, and financially harmed.

If your loved one has been a victim of nursing home negligence, seeking help from an experienced Hackensack nursing home lawyer is essential to hold the responsible parties accountable and secure fair compensation for the suffering endured.

Why Hire Nursing Home Law Center

At Nursing Home Law Center, our focus is on securing justice and compensation for those affected by nursing home negligence. Our experienced legal team has a strong track record of managing these cases with care, delivering significant settlements and favorable verdicts.

We carry out thorough investigations to address every aspect of the abuse, from medical expenses to emotional suffering and other losses. With extensive knowledge of nursing home abuse claims, we handle the legal process effectively and work tirelessly to protect your rights.

We provide clear, compassionate legal expertise throughout the case, ensuring you and your loved ones remain informed, protected, and confident.

Types of Cases Handled by Our Hackensack Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers

Nursing home abuse is any intentional harm or neglect inflicted on a resident by nursing home staff or other caregivers. This abuse can take many forms, and our nursing home neglect attorneys are experienced in handling a wide range of cases, including:

Physical Abuse

This bodily harm Involves the use of force that causes injury or trauma to a resident, such as hitting, slapping, or inappropriate use of restraints. Physical abuse can lead to unexplained injuries such as bruises, fractures, or even more severe conditions like head injuries.

Mental and Emotional Abuse

Psychological abuse occurs when staff members subject residents to verbal assaults, threats, or humiliation, causing emotional distress. Emotional abuse can have lasting effects on the mental health and well-being of the resident.

Sexual Abuse

Any non-consensual sexual contact or assault on a resident is considered sexual abuse. This form of abuse is particularly damaging and requires immediate intervention.

Medical Malpractice

Nursing home malpractice involves the facility failing to provide proper care, leading to medical conditions such as bedsores, infections, or medication errors.

Negligence

Failing to provide essential care, such as assistance with hygiene, proper nutrition, or hydration, is a form of nursing home neglect. This negligence can lead to serious consequences, such as malnutrition, dehydration, and other preventable health problems.

Financial Abuse

Some caregivers take advantage of nursing home residents by engaging in financial exploitation, such as stealing money, forging signatures, or manipulating residents into changing wills or legal documents.

Wrongful Death

In the most tragic cases, nursing home abuse can lead to the death of a resident. Families can pursue wrongful death claims to hold nursing homes accountable for the loss of their loved one.

Understanding Your Legal Rights

Under federal and New Jersey laws, nursing home residents are entitled to quality care and humane treatment.

The Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987 sets national standards to ensure that residents are protected from abuse and neglect in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

This law guarantees residents the right to receive proper care, be free from mistreatment, and live in a safe environment.

In New Jersey, nursing homes are also subject to state-specific regulations that protect residents from abusive behavior.

Eligibility to File a Claim 

If you believe your loved one has suffered abuse or nursing home neglect, you have the legal right to pursue compensation. Both residents and their family members can file a claim, allowing victims to hold the responsible parties accountable and seek justice.

Liability in Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse Cases 

In cases of nursing home abuse, liability may fall on several different parties. Our Hackensack nursing home abuse lawyers work to identify all potential defendants, which may include:

• Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities: Nursing facilities may be held liable if they fail to provide adequate staffing, training, or supervision, leading to abuse or neglect.
• Nursing Home Staff Members: If a staff member directly harms a resident, they can be held accountable for their actions.
• Third-Party Contractors: In some cases, outside contractors or healthcare providers working within the nursing facilities may be responsible for the abuse and neglect.

How Our Hackensack Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys Can Help

Our experienced nursing home neglect attorneys have handled numerous nursing home abuse cases, helping victims and their families receive maximum compensation for the harm caused. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll this abuse can take on families, and we are here to guide you through the legal process with compassion and dedication. Here’s how we can assist:

• Free Case Evaluation: We offer a free consultation to review your case and determine the best action for you and your loved one.
• Case Investigation: Our team conducts a thorough investigation, including reviewing medical records, interviewing witnesses, and gathering all necessary evidence.
• Filing the Claim: We handle all aspects of the legal process, including filing the nursing home abuse claim on your behalf.
• Settlement Negotiation: Our goal is to secure fair compensation through negotiation, covering all damages, such as medical costs, pain and suffering, and other losses.
• Trial Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial to ensure you receive the justice you deserve.

Common Signs of Elder Abuse Among Nursing Home Residents 

There are over 300 Medicare-approved nursing homes in Hackensack, New Jersey. 116 of these facilities (38.7%) have an overall rating below or much below average. Specifically, 143 nursing homes (47.7%) fall short in health inspections, and 140 facilities (46.7%) have inadequate staffing levels. 26 facilities (8.7%) were rated poorly regarding quality measures. [1]

The worst-rated nursing homes in Hackensack include:

It is vital to recognize the common signs of nursing home abuse to protect your loved one. Some warning signs to watch for include:

• Unexplained injuries such as bruises, cuts, or broken bones;
• Sudden weight loss, malnutrition, or dehydration;
• Unsanitary conditions or poor personal hygiene;
• Behavioral changes like fear, withdrawal, or depression;
• Missing personal items or unexplained financial transactions.

What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse

If you believe your loved one has been abused in an assisted living facility, you need to contact the appropriate authorities quickly. Here are the steps you should take:

• Call 911 if there is immediate danger, or your loved one requires urgent medical attention.
• Report nursing home abuse to the administrator or management team.
• File a formal complaint with your local Ombudsman’s office, which advocates for residents’ rights in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
• Contact experienced nursing home neglect attorneys to explore your legal options and begin an investigation.

Damages You Can Recover Through a Nursing Home Abuse Claim

Victims of nursing home negligence may be entitled to recover various types of compensation, including:

• Economic Damages: These include medical expenses, costs of moving the resident to a safer facility, and any other financial losses.
• Non-Economic Damages: Compensation for emotional distress, pain and suffering, and loss of quality of life.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of particularly egregious abuse, the court may award punitive damages to punish the responsible parties and deter future misconduct.

The Cost of Hiring a Hackensack Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

Our Hackensack nursing home abuse lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t have to pay any upfront fees. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation on your behalf. This arrangement allows you to seek justice without any financial burden. We also provide a free initial consultation to help you get started with your case.

You Have Limited Time to Take Legal Action in Hackensack

In New Jersey, there is a statute of limitations for filing nursing home abuse claims. You have a limited time to take legal action, typically two years from the date of the abuse or neglect. Failing to act within this time frame could result in losing your right to pursue compensation, so it’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.

Contact a Hackensack Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Today!

If you suspect that your loved one has been a victim of nursing home abuse in Hackensack, NJ, our experienced legal team is here to help. We are committed to holding nursing homes and other responsible parties accountable for their actions and ensuring you receive fair compensation. 

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options.

Call us at (800) 926-7565, or fill out our contact form

References: [1] Medicare