San Diego Elder Abuse Lawyers

Are You in Need of an Elder Abuse Attorney in San Diego?

It’s tragic when vulnerable seniors fall victim to neglect and mistreatment by caretakers. This is even more challenging if the abuse occurs in a setting that’s specifically designed to provide care and support to them.

If your elderly loved one has suffered harm due to caretaker neglect, Eugene Bruno & Associates can advise you on how to protect your loved ones. We can also pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional harm.

Why Choose Us Over Other Elder Abuse Lawyers in San Diego?

• Eugene Bruno & Associates has helped over 2,500 clients win millions of dollars.
• Our law firm has a 99.7% success rate.
• We’re ranked in the Top 100 for National Trial Lawyers.
• We’ve been selected as Best Personal Injury Lawyers in San Diego by Expertise.com.
• Our law firm has an A rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Eugene Bruno & Associates | Elder Abuse Law Firm in San Diego

For over 30 years, Eugene Bruno & Associates has been helping people in San Diego get justice. When it comes to victims of elder abuse and neglect, there’s no exception. We’ll help you get the justice you deserve, and our San Diego personal injury lawyers always treat you and your loved ones with respect and compassion.

Schedule Your Free Consultation with Our Law Firm Today: 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688)

Do You Have an Elder Abuse Case?

If you suspect your loved one has been the victim of elder abuse, contact Eugene Bruno & Associates right away. We’ll help you take the necessary steps to make sure your loved one is protected and will also advise you about seeking compensation and the best way to move forward with your case.

What Types of Compensation Can I Recover in an Elder Abuse Case?

In San Diego, victims of elder abuse and neglect may be entitled to various types of compensation. For example, economic damages are designed to cover tangible losses, such as medical expenses incurred from treating injuries or illnesses resulting from the abuse. More specifically, in cases of financial abuse, compensation can also cover lost assets or funds that were wrongfully taken.

On the other hand, non-economic damages may be awarded for losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages recognize the profound impact abuse can have on an elder’s well-being.

Another opportunity for compensation in California is punitive damages, which may be available in cases where the offender’s behavior is “oppressive, fraudulent, or malicious.”

What Should I Do If I Suspect Elder Abuse?

If you suspect the care your loved one is receiving is problematic or concerning, start documenting everything you see. This includes taking notes on visible signs of nursing home abuse and the associated dates and times. It’s also important to note all conversations with staff, residents, and management. You should also maintain copies of all written communication and include photographic evidence for additional help.

In California, anyone suspecting elder abuse should also call Adult Protective Services (APS)—which operates a 24-hour hotline—or contact local law enforcement immediately. APS is designed to handle reports of abuse and neglect and provides a critical first step in stopping the mistreatment. For abuse occurring in nursing homes or assisted living facilities, the California Department of Public Health’s Licensing and Certification Division should also be contacted.

Additionally, you’ll want to consult with an experienced elder abuse lawyer in San Diego, such as the attorneys at Eugene Bruno & Associates, as soon as possible for legal guidance.

Common Types of Injuries in Elder Abuse Claims

Several signs could point to elder abuse. For example, malnutrition and dehydration are often indicative of neglect or intentional deprivation. Pressure sores or bedsores are also prevalent in cases of neglect, as this occurs when elders are left immobilized for extended periods without proper care.

Physical injuries can result from rough handling or outright physical assaults. Examples of physical injuries that may be indicative of elder abuse include:

• Cuts
• Bruises
• Fractures
• Sprains
• Strains
• Head injuries
• Bedsores
• PTSD
• Infections
• STDs
• Bleeding

Psychological abuse can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Additionally, recognizing sexual abuse injuries in elders requires careful observation and sensitivity, as these injuries may not always be visible or obvious. Physical signs might include unexplained bruises, bleeding, or injuries around the genital area.

How a San Diego Elder Abuse Attorney Can Help

Determining liability in elder abuse is necessary for pursuing justice and compensation. Consulting an elder abuse lawyer in San Diego is crucial for effectively addressing and resolving cases of elder abuse and neglect. Eugene Bruno & Associates will investigate the abuse and identify liable parties. We’ll also file a claim seeking compensation against anyone whose negligence contributed to your loved one’s injuries and determine liability.

Liability may rest with several parties, depending on the circumstances and nature of the abuse. For example, caregivers, whether in-home or in nursing facilities, can be held liable if they directly inflict harm or neglect their duties that result in injury. Further, nursing homes and assisted living facilities may bear responsibility if systemic issues like inadequate staffing or poor training contribute to the abuse. Facility administrators and owners can also be liable when they fail to adhere to regulations or ignore reports of misconduct.

Additionally, family members can be accountable, and financial advisors may bear responsibility in cases involving embezzlement, fiduciary malfeasance, and undue influence.

Don’t Wait: The Statute of Limitations for Elder Abuse in California

The statute of limitations for filing an elder abuse lawsuit in California is two years. Failure to file a claim in this timeframe can prevent you from receiving the compensation you deserve.

Call Eugene Bruno & Associates Today | 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688)

Our Elder Abuse Case Process

Eugene Bruno & Associates will spring into action to protect your loved ones. Our legal process for pursuing justice includes the following:

1. A free consultation
2. Investigation
3. Notifying liable parties
4. Negotiating a settlement
5. Taking your case to trial, if necessary

Scheduling a Free Consultation and Learning About Your Case

A free consultation with an elder abuse attorney provides you with an opportunity to discuss the details of the case in a safe and supportive setting. Eugene Bruno & Associates will offer insights into the strength of the case and the types of compensation that may be available. This meeting also allows you to ask your attorney questions, addressing any concerns you might have about the legal process or possible outcomes.

A free consultation also helps the client establish a rapport with the lawyer, allowing you to gauge their experience, legal approach, and personality. This objective is for you to make sure our law firm is right for you.

Gathering Critical Evidence in Your Case

Eugene Bruno & Associates employs a meticulous approach to collecting and preserving evidence. This includes reviewing medical records that document the victim’s injuries or neglect.

Photographic evidence of physical harm or living conditions can further substantiate claims. Witness statements from family members, caregivers, or other residents are invaluable, providing firsthand accounts of the abuse or neglect.

Financial records may be examined in cases of financial exploitation to identify suspicious transactions or unauthorized withdrawals. Our attorneys will also obtain internal company documents such as complaints they have received, training documents, and protocols for reporting abuse.

Negotiating Your Injury Settlement

We’ll organize the information we gather to create a compelling narrative about the abuse your loved one has suffered. Then, we’ll send a demand letter to the insurance companies representing all liable parties, beginning the negotiation process.

Securing a fair settlement that reflects the extent of the harm that your loved one has suffered requires detailed discussions of damages for medical expenses, ongoing care costs, and compensation for pain and suffering. Thankfully, at Eugene Bruno & Associates, we understand the tactics used by insurance companies to undervalue claims. Our attorneys can counter these efforts with strong arguments and solid evidence.

While successful negotiations can lead to a settlement that alleviates the financial burden your family is facing, the other side might refuse to negotiate in good faith. If this happens, we’re always prepared to take your case to trial.

Understanding Negligence in an Elder Abuse Case

Negligence in elder abuse cases occurs when a caregiver or facility fails to meet the standard of care, resulting in harm to the elder. The standard of care is established by asking what a reasonably qualified caregiver would do under the same circumstances.

Common types of negligence in an elder abuse case include:

• Physical abuse involves any intentional act that causes harm or injury to a resident. This can include hitting, pushing, or using excessive force, with often visible impacts, such as bruises, cuts, or broken bones.
• Emotional abuse, which may include verbal assaults, threats, or harassment, can lead to fear, anxiety, or depression, with residents becoming withdrawn or fearful or exhibiting sudden changes in personality.
• Neglect involves failing to provide adequate care to meet a resident’s needs. This includes not providing proper nutrition, hygiene, or medical attention. Signs of nursing home neglect might include malnutrition, dehydration, or untreated medical conditions.
• Sexual abuse, which is a deeply distressing issue in nursing homes, leaves physical and emotional scars on vulnerable residents. This form of abuse involves any non-consensual sexual contact, which can be particularly traumatic for the elderly. Signs may include unexplained bruising around sensitive areas, torn clothing, or sudden changes in behavior, such as withdrawal or anxiety.
• Financial exploitation occurs when someone illegally takes or misuses a resident’s money or assets. This can include unauthorized withdrawals, changes to wills, or coercing the resident into signing financial documents. It often goes unnoticed until significant financial damage has occurred. Families should monitor bank statements and be wary of sudden financial changes.

Some of Our Elder Abuse/Injury Case Results

$5 Million – Bus Accident

Our clients were passengers in a casino shuttle bus when the bus driver lost control of the bus, causing it to flip onto its side. Without seat belts, our elderly clients were violently tossed around the inside of the bus, sustaining severe injuries and requiring multiple surgeries. Eugene Bruno & Associates fought this case hard for over a year, and the case was eventually settled on the eve of trial.

$950,000 – Nursing Home Death

Eugene Bruno & Associates secured a $950,000 settlement for the family of an elderly patient who tragically passed away due to negligent care at a nursing home. The case highlighted severe lapses in the standard of care, including failure to monitor vital signs and administer necessary medication. This recovery is a significant step toward justice for the family and reinforces the accountability of healthcare providers in ensuring the safety and well-being of their residents.

What Our Clients Have to Say About Us

“Everything Worked Out Perfectly” – Mona H.

I would highly recommend Eugene Bruno & Associates! They helped me out with a case of mine, and everything worked out perfectly. I worked with Amir, one of the lawyers, and he was amazing. I definitely would work with him again. Thank you!

“This Is the Best Place to Go for Your Personal Injury Claims” – Michelle R.

This is the best place to go for your personal injury claims! They have been attentive throughout the entire process. They have always responded to my text messages and phone calls whenever I have a question and have gone out of their way to make me happy. Now that we are finally at the end of all of this, I just want them to know that I appreciate them so much! They have made every effort to fight on my behalf and get me as much as they possibly could. Thank you, Eugene, Brian, and Juan, for all of your hard work! I will recommend you to everyone I know!

“Top-Notch Personal Injury Representation” – Luai A.

From the first meeting to settlement, Eugene Bruno & Associates really showcased their professionalism, compassion, and expertise. They took the time to explain every step of the process, answered all related questions, and alleviated all concerns. Special thanks to Shayan, Juan, and Brian for their diligent work! I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of top-notch personal injury representation. They are second to none.

Other Locations We Serve Near San Diego

• Carlsbad
• Chula Vista
• Clairemont
• El Cajon
• Encinitas
• Escondido
• Mission Valley
• Oceanside

Contact Our San Diego Elder Abuse Law Firm Today

Learn more about how the elder abuse attorneys at Eugene Bruno & Associates can help you and your family. Call 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) to schedule a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Elder Abuse Questions

What qualifies as an elder abuse case in California?

Elder abuse is physical abuse, neglect, abandonment, isolation, abduction, or other mistreatment that results in physical harm, pain, or mental suffering; the deprivation by a caretaker of goods or services that are necessary to avoid physical harm or mental suffering; taking, hiding, or obtaining the property of an elder for your own use or defrauding the elder.

How can I find out if I should pursue an elder abuse case?

You have the right to pursue compensation if your loved one has been harmed. Call Eugene Bruno & Associates to speak to one of our experienced attorneys about your case.

What should I do if I suspect elder abuse in San Diego?

Take pictures of physical signs of abuse, take notes every time you talk to caretakers and other nursing home employees about the case, and report suspected abuse to Adult Protective Services (APS) or local law enforcement immediately.

What can an elder abuse lawyer do for me and my loved one who’s suffered abuse?

Eugene Bruno & Associates can advise you on how to protect your loved ones. We can also file a claim or lawsuit seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional counseling, and other damages.

How much does it cost to hire a San Diego elder abuse attorney?

It doesn’t cost you a penny to hire Eugene Bruno & Associates, and we won’t charge you anything unless we win you a settlement.