Los Angeles Elder Abuse Lawyer

Los Angeles Elder Abuse Lawyer

Elder abuse is a widespread but often hidden crisis in Los Angeles. Each year, thousands of seniors in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and long-term care centers suffer from abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation at the hands of caregivers and facility staff.  Many victims are unable to speak up, leaving families struggling to uncover the truth and hold negligent parties accountable.

At The Elder Justice Firm, we represent victims and families of elder abuse.  It’s what we do.  Our Los Angeles Elder Abuse Lawyer have a proven track record of winning multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements on behalf of victims and families.  Cases we handle include:

  • Nursing home abuse and neglect – Malnutrition, dehydration, infections, and improper medical care/failure to administer correct medications.
  • Bed Sores/Pressure Ulcers – This is a significant sign of elder care facility neglect and leads to tremendous pain and suffering in patients and even death.
  • Skilled Nursing Facility neglect – Failure to monitor residents, unsafe conditions, and medication errors.
  • Financial exploitation of seniors – Fraud, power of attorney abuse, and asset theft.
  • Sexual abuse and assault – Criminal acts by caregivers or fellow residents.
  • Resident-on-resident violence – Injuries caused by lack of supervision and failure to segregate aggressive residents.
  • Falls, fractures and brain injuries – Preventable injuries due to unsafe conditions and lack of fall prevention measures.
  • Wrongful death due to neglect or abuse – Legal action against facilities for fatal consequences of negligence and poor care.

California has strong laws protecting seniors and dependent adults from abuse. Under the Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act (EADACPA), victims and their families can pursue compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, financial losses, and punitive damages when facilities engage in reckless neglect or intentional wrongdoing. The Elder Justice Firm aggressively pursues justice on behalf of our clients, ensuring that caregivers and institutions that commit negligence or wrongdoing are held accountable.

Why Choose Our Los Angeles Elder Abuse Lawyer at The Elder Justice Firm For Your Nursing Abuse Case?

The Elder Justice Firm is a leading elder abuse law firm in Los Angeles, known for taking on major corporate-owned nursing homes and assisted living facilities.  Our attorneys have built a reputation by securing significant verdicts and settlements for victims and families.  Over their careers, our attorneys have secured over $200 million in verdicts and settlements.  Our elder abuse lawyers handle high-profile, catastrophic cases that are routinely featured in local, state, and even national media.

Based on our case results and willingness to fight on behalf of victims and their families, our attorneys were honored with the “Streetfighter of the Year” award by the Consumer Attorneys of California – the leading organization of victims’ rights attorneys in the state.

How We Will Win Your Elder Abuse Lawsuit

How We Will Win Your Elder Abuse Lawsuit

We prepare every case like it’s going to trial.  We approach every case with the mindset that it will go to trial. From the moment we take on a case, we conduct an exhaustive investigation, gathering every document, speaking to every witness, and securing every available source of evidence. We do not wait for the defense to dictate the pace—we build our case proactively, preparing for trial before a jury from day one.

We work in conjunction with law enforcement.  Our firm works closely with state and federal agencies responsible for regulating nursing homes, hospitals, and skilled nursing facilities. By alongside these agencies, we apply maximum pressure on negligent facilities, ensuring that their violations are exposed and documented. This not only strengthens our case but also helps hold the facility accountable to regulatory authorities.

We have a team of industry leading experts.  We partner with the nation’s top experts in medicine, nursing home administration, life care planning, and financial damages. These experts provide critical testimony to establish both liability and the full extent of harm suffered by our clients. By assembling a team of leading specialists, we ensure that our clients receive the strongest possible representation.

We leverage our experience and reputation.  Our aggressive and trial-ready approach frequently leads to highly favorable settlements. Defendants know our track record of results, and that facing us in court means risking a substantial jury verdict.  Many choose to settle rather than take that risk. Our experience and knowledge of California elder abuse laws allows us to not only stand up to these facilities and their army of lawyers, but force them to pay the full value of harms caused by their negligence and misconduct.

Standing up for the elderly and preventing abuse is our passion.  At The Elder Justice Firm, our mission is not just to win cases, but to hold negligent care providers accountable, force systemic changes, and secure full and fair compensation for our clients and their families.

Case Study: Our $1.5 Million Settlement for a Fall at a Los Angeles Nursing Home

We recently handled a case on behalf of an elderly gentleman who fell at a senior housing center.  Our client, an 81 year old gentleman and resident at a senior living facility, suffered multiple fractures in a preventable fall caused by an unsafe and poorly designed trash disposal area. The facility, originally built as a hospital but converted to apartments, had repurposed its loading dock as a makeshift garbage disposal site.  Rather than implementing a safe system for elderly residents, the facility required them to throw their trash over a ledge into dumpsters below.

Case Study

Our client lost his balance and fell onto the hard concrete floor between two dumpsters, breaking his ribs and leg.  We filed a lawsuit against the facility, demonstrating that the trash disposal setup was inherently hazardous and that the facility had failed in its duty to provide a safe environment for its residents.  To strengthen our case, we worked with leading experts, including:

  • Premises safety specialists who evaluated the structural dangers of the facility and confirmed that the design created an unreasonable risk of harm.
  • Building management experts who testified about industry standards for senior living facilities and why the setup failed to meet safety requirements.
  • Medical professionals who outlined the long-term impact of fall-related fractures on elderly individuals, including the increased risks of mobility loss and reduced life expectancy.

Throughout the entire case, the defense attempted to shift blame for the fall on our client, and refused to pay anything.  A week before trial, however  – when they realized that we were fully prepared to try the case (and win)—they caved in and paid their entire $1.5 million insurance policy limits. This outcome provided our client with the financial security he needed for medical care, rehabilitation, and future support. More importantly, the case sent a clear message that facilities that neglect resident safety will be held accountable.  Indeed, because of our case, the senior living facility changed its trash disposal protocols to protect its residents.

Types of Elder Abuse Cases Our Lawyers Handle in Los Angeles

Types of Elder Abuse Cases Our Lawyers Handle in Los Angeles

Our team of elder abuse lawyers regularly handles nursing home abuse cases and other elder neglect cases throughout Los Angeles.  Below is a list of the types of cases we handle.

Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect.  Negligence in nursing homes leads to severe injuries and preventable deaths. Common examples include:

  • Bedsores and pressure ulcers, caused by prolonged immobility and lack of proper care
  • Malnutrition and dehydration, leading to rapid weight loss, confusion, and infections
  • Medication errors, such as incorrect dosages or failure to administer necessary drugs
  • Sepsis and infections, often resulting from poor hygiene and wound care neglect
  • Physical abuse, including unexplained bruises, fractures, or head injuries

Financial Exploitation and Fraud.  Many elderly individuals, particularly those with dementia, are targeted for financial abuse. This can include:

  • Unauthorized withdrawals and fraudulent transactions
  • Coerced will, trust, or power of attorney changes
  • Misuse of Social Security, pension benefits, or real estate assets

Falls and Fractures in Elder Care Facilities.  Many senior care facilities fail to implement proper fall-prevention measures, leading to serious injuries. Common facility failures include:

  • Lack of mobility aids such as walkers, canes, or wheelchairs
  • Unsafe facility conditions, including wet floors, poor lighting or bad design
  • Failure to conduct fall risk assessments for residents

Elder Abuse in Los Angeles: A Growing Problem

Elder Abuse in Los Angeles: A Growing Problem

Los Angeles County faces a growing crisis in elder abuse, with some of the highest reported rates of neglect, physical mistreatment, and financial exploitation in California. With a population exceeding ten million, the county is home to more than 1.6 million residents aged 65 and older, a number that is expected to rise significantly in the coming decades. As the aging population increases, so does the demand for quality elder

care, but the reality is that many seniors face neglect, substandard medical care, and outright abuse in the very facilities meant to care for them.

According to Los Angeles County Adult Protective Services (APS), more than 14,000 cases of elder abuse were reported in the county last year. However, research from the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) suggests that only one in 24 cases is ever reported, meaning the true number of abuse cases is likely far higher. Elderly victims often remain silent due to fear, cognitive impairment, or social isolation, allowing neglect and mistreatment to continue unchecked.

A significant portion of elder abuse cases in Los Angeles stem from neglect and mistreatment in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) oversees nursing home safety and compliance and reports that more than 40 percent of nursing home complaints in the state involve serious neglect or harm to residents. These cases often include dehydration, malnutrition, untreated infections, severe bedsores, and medication errors—all of which can have devastating consequences. In many instances, facilities are understaffed, leading to overworked caregivers, inadequate supervision, and rushed medical care that puts residents at serious risk.

Financial exploitation is another growing concern in Los Angeles County. The U.S. Department of Justice Elder Justice Initiative estimates that billions of dollars are stolen from seniors every year through fraud, scams, and abuse of financial authority. In some cases, caregivers or even family members take advantage of a senior’s diminished capacity, coercing them into unauthorized financial transactions, altering wills, or abusing power of attorney privileges to steal assets. Many seniors who experience financial abuse lose their life savings, leaving them unable to afford medical care or housing.

The challenges posed by an aging population in Los Angeles are compounded by a lack of oversight and accountability in elder care facilities. While state and federal regulations exist to protect seniors, enforcement is often reactive rather than preventative. Many facilities continue to operate despite a history of violations, fines, or citations for substandard care. Budget constraints, staffing shortages, and corporate profit-driven policies create an environment where resident well-being is often secondary to financial interests.

In Los Angeles, elder abuse is not limited to institutional settings. Many seniors are mistreated in private homes by caregivers or even family members. Cases of physical abuse, emotional manipulation, and severe neglect frequently occur in assisted living settings and private residences, where oversight is minimal. These cases are especially difficult to detect, as isolated seniors may lack the ability or support system to report their mistreatment.

With the number of elderly residents in Los Angeles expected to grow dramatically in the next decade, the risks of elder abuse and neglect will only increase unless facilities, caregivers, and regulatory agencies take proactive steps to address these systemic failures. Raising awareness, increasing enforcement, and holding negligent facilities accountable through legal action are key steps in preventing further harm.

If you suspect elder abuse, you can report it to:

Los Angeles County Adult Protective Services (APS) – Investigates elder abuse in private homes and assisted living facilities.

  • Phone: 1-877-477-3646
  • Address: 3175 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90020

California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Regulates and investigates nursing home facilities.

  • Phone: 1-800-236-9747

Courts Where Our Los Angeles Elder Abuse Cases Are Heard

We file and litigate elder abuse cases in all major Los Angeles County courts, including:

  • Van Nuys Courthouse – 6230 Sylmar Ave, Van Nuys, CA 91401
  • Pasadena Courthouse – 300 E Walnut St, Pasadena, CA 91101
  • Santa Monica Courthouse – 1725 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
  • Chatsworth Courthouse – 9425 Penfield Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311
  • Compton Courthouse – 200 W Compton Blvd, Compton, CA 90220

Our Los Angeles Office For Elder Abuse

The Elder Justice Firm serves clients throughout Los Angeles County. Our Los Angeles elder abuse lawyers are available for in-person consultations by appointment.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Los Angeles Elder Abuse Lawyers

Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Los Angeles Elder Abuse Lawyers

If you suspect a loved one is suffering from elder abuse or nursing home neglect, you have legal options. The Elder Justice Firm has the experience, resources, and reputation to hold negligent care facilities accountable. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal rights.  We understand that victims of elder abuse and their families are going through an extremely emotional and painful

experience, and we are here to provide you with information and answer your questions with the utmost compassion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common signs of elder abuse in Los Angeles?

Elder abuse can take many forms, but some of the most common warning signs include unexplained injuries like bruises or fractures, sudden weight loss or malnutrition, poor hygiene, untreated infections, or bedsores. Victims may also exhibit emotional withdrawal, depression, or an unusual fear of caregivers. Financial abuse often presents as missing money, sudden changes in a will, or unauthorized transactions. If a caregiver is restricting access to your loved one or refusing to leave them alone with family, it could be a red flag.

What should I do if I suspect nursing home abuse in Los Angeles?

If you believe a loved one is being mistreated, take immediate action. Start by documenting any visible injuries, poor living conditions, or financial irregularities. Report the suspected abuse to the appropriate agency, such as Los Angeles County Adult Protective Services at 1-877-477-3646 or the California Department of Public Health at 1-800-236-9747. Lastly, consult an experienced nursing home abuse attorney who can help investigate the case and take legal action if necessary.

Who investigates nursing home abuse in Los Angeles?

Several agencies oversee elder abuse cases:

  • California Department of Public Health (CDPH) – Handles complaints against nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities.
  • Los Angeles County Adult Protective Services (APS) – Investigates abuse in private homes and unlicensed facilities.
  • California Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program – Advocates for nursing home and assisted living residents.
  • California Department of Justice Elder Abuse Unit – Investigates financial fraud and criminal elder abuse.

How do I report nursing home abuse in Los Angeles?

Reports can be made online, by phone, or in person:

  • CDPH – File a complaint here or call 1-800-236-9747.
  • Los Angeles County APS – Call 1-877-477-3646 to report abuse in private homes or unlicensed facilities.
  • California Long-Term Care Ombudsman – Call 1-800-231-4024 for help advocating for a resident’s rights.
  • Local law enforcement – If the abuse involves physical harm or immediate danger, call 911.

Can I sue a nursing home for abuse or neglect?

Yes. California law allows victims and their families to file lawsuits against negligent nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Common legal claims include neglect, physical or emotional abuse, financial exploitation, and wrongful death. Lawsuits, which would be filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, can help recover compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages against the facility for reckless misconduct.

How long do I have to file a nursing home abuse lawsuit in California?

The statute of limitations depends on the type of claim:

  • Personal injury (abuse or neglect): Two years from the date of injury.
  • Wrongful death: Two years from the date of death.
  • Claims against a government-run facility: Six months to file an administrative claim before suing.
  • Financial elder abuse: Up to four years from the discovery of the fraud.

What types of compensation are available in an elder abuse lawsuit?

Victims and families may recover damages for medical treatment, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and financial losses. In cases involving severe neglect or intentional wrongdoing, punitive damages may also be awarded. In wrongful death cases, families can seek compensation for funeral costs and loss of companionship.

Can I still file a lawsuit if my loved one has passed away?

Yes. California law allows families to file wrongful death and survival actions to hold negligent facilities accountable. Unlike most personal injury claims, elder abuse cases under the Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act (EADACPA) allow compensation for the pain and suffering the victim endured before passing.

How much is a nursing home abuse case worth in Los Angeles?

Settlement amounts depend on the severity of harm, facility negligence, and whether punitive damages apply. Many cases result in six- or seven-figure settlements, especially when there is a pattern of neglect. A qualified attorney can evaluate your case based on prior results.

Why should I choose The Elder Justice Firm to handle my case?

Our firm takes an aggressive, trial-focused approach to every case. We prepare each claim as if it will go to trial, pressuring nursing homes and their corporate owners to settle on favorable terms rather than face us in court. Our attorneys have recovered over $200 million for victims and have the resources to take on the largest nursing home chains in California. We work with top medical and elder care experts to build strong cases and ensure that negligent facilities are held accountable.

How much does it cost to hire an elder abuse lawyer?

We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win. We also advance all litigation costs, so there are no upfront expenses. Our goal is to make sure victims and their families can pursue justice without financial risk.

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Why Choose The Elder Justice Firm?

The Elder Justice Firm
We Focus on Elder Abuse & Neglect Cases
Many law firms claim to have handle elder abuse experience — but the Elder Justice Firm specializes in dedicated to elder abuse and nursing home abuse cases.
The Elder Justice Firm

Proven Track Record in High-Value Cases

We have won multi-million-dollar cases against public and private facilities on behalf of our clients. As a result, many institutions and their insurance companies opt to settle with us, based on our attorneys’ reputations.

The Elder Justice Firm

We Take on Complex Cases Against Large Institutions

Many elder abuse cases involve powerful corporate nursing home chains with teams of defense lawyers. We have the experience and resources to fight back and win.
The Elder Justice Firm

We Work with Medical & Elder Care Experts

Our legal team collaborates with medical professionals, nursing home industry experts, and financial specialists to prove liability and maximize compensation.

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