Mount Pleasant Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

Elder abuse is a serious issue that affects vulnerable nursing home residents in Mount Pleasant and across South Carolina. Families trust nursing homes to provide a safe environment for their loved ones, but unfortunately, abuse within these facilities can go unnoticed until significant harm has already been done.

When elder abuse or nursing home negligence occurs, it’s essential to seek help from experienced nursing home abuse lawyers. These professionals have the expertise to hold nursing home facilities accountable for their actions, protect residents’ rights, and seek compensation for damages.

Why Hire Nursing Home Law Center

At Nursing Home Law Center, we are dedicated to obtaining justice and fair compensation for victims of nursing abuse. Our experienced legal team has a strong track record of handling these cases with care, consistently securing significant settlements and verdicts for our clients.

We carry out comprehensive investigations to address every aspect of the abuse, from medical expenses to emotional trauma and other damages. Our in-depth knowledge of nursing home abuse claims allows us to manage even the most complex cases while fighting relentlessly to protect your rights.

Throughout the legal process, we offer compassionate guidance and clear communication, ensuring that you and your family remain informed, supported, and confident as we work to secure justice.

Types of Cases Handled by Our Mount Pleasant Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers

Elder abuse occurs when a resident in a nursing home facility is subjected to harmful actions or neglect by nursing staff, caregivers, or others. This abuse can take various forms, leaving residents vulnerable to both physical and emotional harm. 

At Nursing Home Law Center, our nursing home neglect attorneys handle many types of cases, ensuring victims receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse involves the intentional use of force against a resident, resulting in bodily harm. This assault includes actions such as hitting, slapping, or pushing, as well as the improper use of restraints.

Mental and Emotional Abuse

Mental and emotional abuse includes actions that cause psychological distress to a resident. Psychological abuse involves verbal insults, threats, humiliation, or isolating the resident from others.

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse in nursing homes involves any form of unwanted sexual contact or behavior. Victims of this type of abuse are often unable to defend themselves due to age, illness, or other vulnerabilities.

Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice in nursing homes occurs when residents do not receive the necessary medical care. Common examples include medication errors, failure to prevent or treat pressure sores, or neglecting to address medical issues promptly.

Negligence

Nursing home neglect occurs when a facility fails to meet the basic needs of its residents. This act includes failing to provide adequate nutrition, hydration, hygiene, or supervision. Due to nursing home neglect, residents may suffer from malnutrition or dehydration or wander away from the facility (elopement).

Financial Abuse

Financial exploitation occurs when a resident’s assets or finances are misused or stolen. This abuse may involve manipulating the resident to change financial documents, stealing from bank accounts, or even identity theft.

Wrongful Death

In the most tragic cases, elder abuse can lead to the death of a resident. Whether due to abuse, medical malpractice, or negligence, families may pursue a wrongful death claim to hold the responsible parties accountable and seek justice for their loss.

Understanding Your Legal Rights

Nursing home residents in Mount Pleasant and throughout South Carolina are protected by state and federal laws that ensure their safety, dignity, and quality of care. These laws are designed to prevent nursing home negligence and exploitation and hold nursing home facilities accountable for providing a safe environment for residents.

One key federal protection for residents is the Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987. This law mandates that any nursing home receiving Medicare or Medicaid funding must meet certain standards of care.

In addition to federal protections, South Carolina law provides further safeguards for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) oversees the licensing and regulation of nursing home facilities, ensuring that they comply with state regulations.

Eligibility File a Nursing Home Abuse Claim 

In cases of nursing home neglect or abuse, several parties have the right to file a claim:

• If capable, the resident can file a claim for the abuse and neglect they have suffered.
• If the resident is incapacitated, a family member or legal guardian with power of attorney can file a claim on their behalf.
• If the resident has passed away due to neglect or abuse in a nursing home setting, the family members can file a wrongful death claim to seek justice and compensation for their loss.

How Our Mount Pleasant Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys Can Help

At Nursing Home Law Center, our experienced personal injury lawyers have a long history of successfully representing victims of nursing home negligence in South Carolina. Our legal team understands the profound impact that nursing abuse can have on residents and their families. 

Our South Carolina nursing home abuse and neglect lawyers are dedicated to holding the responsible parties accountable and pursuing fair compensation for the harm caused. With years of experience handling complex nursing home abuse cases, we know what it takes to achieve justice for our clients.

Here are the services we offer to help families navigate the legal process:

Free Case Evaluation

We offer a free case evaluation for families who suspect their loved one has been a victim of nursing home negligence. During this consultation, our legal team will review the details of your case, discuss the available legal options, and provide guidance on how to move forward. There is no obligation, allowing families to understand their rights without financial risk.

Case Investigation

Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations to uncover the full extent of the abuse or neglect. We gather critical evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and facility reports, to build a strong case. We also work with medical experts to assess physical harm, emotional trauma, and other damages suffered by the resident.

Filing the Claim

Once we have gathered sufficient evidence, our team will file a formal nursing home abuse claim on your behalf. We ensure that all legal paperwork is properly completed and submitted within the appropriate deadlines, allowing you to focus on your loved one’s recovery while we handle the legal details.

Settlement Negotiation

Many nursing home abuse cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who work tirelessly to secure a fair settlement that covers medical expenses, emotional suffering, and other damages. We will negotiate aggressively to ensure that you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.

Trial Representation

Our team is fully prepared to take your case to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached. As experienced trial lawyers, we will present a strong case in court and advocate for your loved one’s rights before a judge and jury. We are committed to fighting for justice and ensuring responsible parties are held accountable, regardless of the complexity of the case.

Common Signs of Elder Abuse Among Nursing Home Residents 

There are 17 Medicare-certified nursing homes in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, and 41.2% of facilities have an overall rating below or much below average. Specifically, 47.1% of nursing homes fall short in health inspections, and 47.1% have inadequate staffing. 29.4% of facilities were rated poorly regarding quality measures. [1]

To prevent further suffering, family members need to be aware of potential warning signs of abuse or neglect.

• Unexplained injuries
• Marks from restraints
• Pressure ulcers
• Sudden mood changes
• Fear of certain staff members
• Social isolation
• Malnutrition or dehydration
• Untreated medical conditions
• Poor hygiene
• Unexplained financial transactions
• Missing personal belongings

The worst-rated Mount Pleasant, South Carolina nursing homes include:

What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse

If you suspect that your loved one is a victim of nursing home negligence, it is important to act quickly to protect their safety. Here are the steps you should take:

Call 911 if Immediate Danger Is Present

If your loved one is in danger or requires urgent medical attention, call 911 immediately. Emergency responders can ensure your loved one’s safety and provide necessary medical care while documenting the abuse for potential legal action.

Report to the Nursing Home Administrator or Management

If there is no immediate danger, report your concerns to the nursing home administrator or management. They are responsible for overseeing staff and ensuring the well-being of residents. Document your report in writing and keep copies of any communication for your records.

File a Complaint with Your Local Ombudsman’s Office

Every state has a long-term care Ombudsman program that advocates for residents’ rights in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. The Ombudsman investigates complaints of nursing home abuse, neglect, or poor care conditions. Filing a complaint with your local Ombudsman will prompt an investigation into the situation.

Contact a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

It is crucial to contact an experienced Mount Pleasant nursing home abuse lawyer who can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process of filing a claim. 

A lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence, and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions. Legal representation is essential for ensuring that your loved one’s rights are protected and that justice is served.

Contact a Mount Pleasant Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Today!

At Nursing Home Law Center, our experienced legal team is dedicated to fighting for the rights of residents who have suffered from nursing home abuse or neglect. We have a proven track record of successfully handling complex nursing home abuse cases and securing significant compensation for victims and their families.

Our law firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

If you suspect that your loved one has been a victim of nursing home abuse in Mount Pleasant, contact us today for a free consultation. Our skilled nursing home abuse lawyers will review the details of your case, explain your legal options, and guide you through the process of pursuing justice and compensation.

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

References: [1] Medicare